89. Captain CRAIGasked the modus operandi adopted by the Government to ascertain the views of the officers and rank and file of the Royal Irish Constabulary as to their treatment under the Government of Ireland Bill; whether, at the meeting to which they were hurriedly summoned, free discussion was encouraged, or were the men informed that their names and numbers were known and that they were expected to swallow the official 218 scheme or stand the consequence; were the representatives permitted to consult their comrades as to the proposals before ventilating their views; and whether, with all the facts now known, it is intended to convene a fresh conference where free and unfettered discussion will be permitted?
§ Mr. BIRRELLThe position of the force under the Bill was considered first by county committees, afterwards by central committees elected by the force as a whole representing the officers and men respectively. No such statement as that referred to in the question was made to the members of the committees, who were given every opportunity, either by consultation with their comrades or otherwise, to consider the proposals laid before the committees, and, as a matter of fact, the committees have expressed their thanks for the facilities for free discussion afforded to them. No further conference would appear to be necessary.