§ 71. Mr. O'GRADYasked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether he has received any communication from workmen in Belfast showing that the recent disturbances created by Unionists were largely promoted as a means of breaking up the union of Catholic and Protestant workmen in industrial organisations, and also drawing attention to the issue and display of a bill in the windows of houses of persons commonly known as loyalists, stating that if England does not help them in defeating Home Rule Germany will do so; and whether he proposes to take any action in respect to these matters?
§ Mr. BIRRELLNo, Sir, I have not received the communication referred to. It is a fact that the police found a small printed notice to the effect stated in the question posted on a gable of a house. No action appears to be necessary with regard to it.
§ Mr. O'GRADYArising out of that answer, may I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether he is aware that a deputation from these Catholic and Protestant workmen are about to wait upon him in order to lay their case before him personally?
§ Mr. BIRRELLYes, I shall have the pleasure of seeing them, I think, next Tuesday.
§ Mr. O'GRADYThere is some truth in it, then?
§ Mr. BIRRELLI cannot say, but I expect to see the deputation on Tuesday.
§ Mr. MOOREMay I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether he is aware that the unpleasantness arose from the blackguardism and brutality of the Ancient Order of Hibernians?
§ Mr. BIRRELLI know nothing of the kind.
§ Mr. BIRRELLWell, I do not know it.