§ Mr. AMERYasked whether, under the proposed Government of Ireland Bill, the Irish Parliament will be at liberty to 1752 maintain an agent-general, commercial agent, or other special representative in any foreign State, or in any other part of His Majesty's Dominions?
§ Mr. ILLINGWORTHI would refer the hon. Member to paragraphs (4) and (7) of Clause 2 of the Bill.
§ Mr. AMERYWill the hon. Gentleman explain how the provision preventing legislation with respect to treaties and foreign relations can prevent the executive for appointing agents-general to other countries?
§ Mr. ILLINGWORTHThe paragraphs I have referred to have the intention of meeting the point raised by the hon. Member. Whether they do or do not is a matter for argument.
§ Mr. MITCHELL-THOMSONDo paragraphs 4 and 7 give liberty to maintain these people or not?
§ Mr. ILLINGWORTHAs I read the paragraphs they carry out the intention I have stated. I cannot go beyond that.
§ Mr. AMERYThe Clause says they shall not have power to make laws in respect of the following matters. Is not the appointment of agents-general making a law?
§ Mr. ILLINGWORTHI think that is a question for argument in Committee.
§ Mr. SPEAKERIt is obvious that the hon. Gentleman can raise the question in Debate in Committee.