§ Mr. NEWMANasked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether his attention has been called to a meeting held at Robins-town, near Trim, county Meath, on 1st February, when a certain individual was denounced by the Dunderry branch of the United Irish League as a grazier, and the audience were advised by the chief speaker to severely boycott the man so denounced; whether he has been able to ascertain the name of this speaker; whether a Government note taker was present; and whether he intends to take further action in the matter?
§ Mr. BIRRELLThe meeting referred to was held at Robinstown, on the 3rd February, and a police shorthand writer was present. The language used by the hon. Member for South Meath, who was the principal speaker, has been carefully considered, and I am advised that, in the circumstances, further action would not be justified.
Captain CRAIGMight I ask the right hon. Gentleman when he considers action would be justified in cases of this sort?
§ Mr. BIRRELLAll I can say is I have here the opinion of the Attorney-General on the subject, and in his opinion, having regard to the evidence which was taken down by a shorthand writer, action would not be justified.