§ 49. Mr. W. THORNEasked the Secretary of State for War if he is aware that Corporal O'Leary, of the 3rd Battalion King's Own Regiment, stationed at Brackenbir Moor, Westmoreland, has been a prisoner in open arrest upon a charge described by the adjutant as bordering on the lines of sedition; whether he is aware that the offence consisted of stating an opinion that married private soldiers in the Army should express dissatisfaction with their present remuneration and should seek to obtain separation allowance to maintain their wives and families during the period of annual training; if he is aware that Corporal O'Leary was reduced from the rank of lance-sergeant in 1910 for the offence of insolence; that such insolence consisted of asking for a sum of money to which he was justly entitled and discussing political subjects; whether the court-martial has been held; if so, what was the result, and whether Corporal O'Leary had the opportunity of being heard for the defence; and whether he can now state the result of the promised inquiry?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for WAR (Colonel Seely)There are three distinct cases of offence concerned. In the first case he was reprimanded for conduct to the prejudice of good order and discipline. In the second case he was deprived of his lance stripe for writing an insolent letter to the adjutant. In the third case he was tried by court-martial for failing to keep order when in charge of a tent, was found guilty and reduced to the ranks. He had every opportunity for being heard in the defence; he gave evidence himself as a sworn witness and produced other witnesses in his defence.
§ Mr. SWIFT MacNEILLMay I ask whether this non-commissioned officer, the charge against whom is described as "bordering on the lines of sedition," could be made perfectly loyal and patriotic by recommending him to be a member of the Irish Privy Council?