HC Deb 01 April 1912 vol 36 cc871-2
Mr. LANSBURY

asked the Prime Minister if his attention has been called to cases of military drilling taking place in and around Belfast, the object of such drilling being to prepare an army of men to oppose the establishment of Home Rule in Ireland; and will he say if any sanction has been given by the authorities for such drilling to take place; and, if not, what steps the Government propose to take to put an end to such practices?

Mr. MacVEAGH

Before the right hon. Gentleman replies may I ask whether his attention has been called to a speech delivered by Lord Dunleath a few days ago in which he states it is not military drill but squad drill, and that the only object is to enable large bodies of Orangemen to turn round when they receive the word of command from their leaders?

The PRIME MINISTER

In the pressure of other duties, I have not had time to read what Lord Dunleath said.

Mr. MacVEAGH

I will send the right hon. Gentleman a copy.

The PRIME MINISTER

With regard to the question on the Paper, the Government are fully informed as to the drilling which is going on in the North of Ireland, the immediate object being, as I understand, to prepare for a party demonstration on Easter Monday. Should circumstances lead to the belief that there is any seditious purpose in view, the Government are prepared to take such action as may be necessary. No authority can sanction drilling for an illegal purpose.

Mr. LANSBURY

If the Miners' Federation commenced to teach their men to drill would they be allowed to do so without the law being called in?

The PRIME MINISTER

That is a hypothetical question, which I will answer when the case arises.

Mr. LANSBURY

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that a leaflet is being circulated throughout Ulster informing the Ulster people that the officers of the British Army have assured their friends that they will refuse to order the troops to fire on the people of Ulster if they rebel against Home Rule? If the right hon. Gentleman has not received a copy I shall have pleasure in sending him one.