§ Mr. CHARLES CRAIGasked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether he is aware that at the first meeting of convocation of the new Queen's University of Belfast, held on the 16th instant, a resolution was passed by 238 votes to 56 emphatically condemning both the original establishment in the university of a lectureship in scholastic philosophy and any extension of its scope: and whether the Government, in filling vacancies in the senate which may occur between now and 1st November, 1914, will consult convocation before making an appointment to such vacancies?
§ Mr. BIRRELLI have seen a report of the proceedings at the meeting of the Convocation. I do not propose to adopt the suggestion contained in the last paragraph of the question.
§ Mr. CHARLES CRAIGDoes the right hon. Gentleman then intend to flout the action or the influence of Convocation, which in four years will be the body that will have the direction of the entire university, including the appointment of members of the senate?
§ Mr. BIRRELLIt is not a question of flouting; it is simply obeying the law.
§ Mr. CHARLES CRAIGIs it not quite within the right hon. Gentleman's power, and within his province, in the case of a vacancy arising, to use his influence to have a person appointed who will be acceptable to Convocation?
§ Mr. BIRRELLNo, Sir. I have no concern with that except to appoint the person best qualified to discharge the duties of the office.