HC Deb 19 December 1912 vol 45 cc1667-8
36. Captain CRAIG

asked whether the vacancy for a resident magistrate in Ireland, which has just been filled by the appointment of a civilian, was, under the existing rules, due to an officer of the Royal Irish Constabulary; and, if so, what were the circumstances which justify this deprivation of a constabulary officer of the promotion which successive Governments in Ireland have invariably conceded?

Mr. BIRRELL

I have already answered this question, but for the information of the hon. and gallant Member I will repeat it. It has been the practice of successive Governments, and my practice also, to assign one in every three vacancies among the resident magistrates to the Royal Irish Constabulary. The vacancy referred to in the question does not go to the police.