HC Deb 09 May 1912 vol 38 cc564-5
Mr. AMERY

asked the Postmaster-General (1) whether there is any provision in the Government of Ireland Bill to secure the retention of the English language as the official language of the postal service, or to prevent members of the postal service from being compelled to learn the Gaelic language or Gaelic characters; (2) whether under the provisions of the Government of Ireland Bill, the Irish Post Office will be separately represented at international postal and telegraphic conferences; and whether it will have the power of entering into separate treaties and conventions with regard to postal rates, or the control of wireless telegraphy and ocean cables?

The POSTMASTER-GENERAL (Mr. Herbert Samuel)

There is no specific provision in the Bill touching these matters. The Third Schedule for 3 (a) deals with the contingency of members of the staff being required to perform duties which are not analogous to those previously performed, or are an unreasonable addition to them.

Mr. AMERY

Do I understand that the Irish Government will have the power of entering into treaties and negotiations in connection with postal matters?

Mr. HERBERT SAMUEL

It depends upon the circumstances. There is a provision in Clause 44 (1) (c) for making regulations by Order in Council controlling the relations between the British and the Irish Post Offices. Very probably some of these matters may be taken under these regulations.

Mr. AMERY

Does not Clause 2 reserve treaty powers entirely to the United Kingdom?

Mr. HERBERT SAMUEL

Yes, Sir. There will not be any power for the Irish Government to enter into treaties.

Mr. AMERY

What is the difference between these postal matters, and the others?