46. Captain CRAIGasked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that, in anticipation of the Government of Ireland Bill passing, an extensive boycotting of Ulster has been started in the South and West of Ireland, circulars being distributed naming certain firms in the Northern Province, and what action the Government propose to take?
§ The CHIEF SECRETARY for IRELAND (Mr. Birrell)I understand that some shopkeepers in the South of Ireland have refused to continue to deal with firms who are thought to have countenanced the expulsion of Roman Catholic workmen from their employment in Belfast. Such a refusal does not appear to call for any action on the part of the Government.
Captain CRAIGHas the right hon. Gentleman seen the circulars published, which contain a far longer list than could possibly be affected by a complaint of that kind?
§ Mr. BIRRELLI have seen certain lists. I notice they do not bear any mark or indication where they proceed from, and I am unable to attach more importance to them than I have stated.
Captain CRAIGIs it not on the support of these gentlemen that the right hon. Gentleman has based his Home Rule Bill?