HC Deb 11 June 1913 vol 53 cc1618-9
48. Viscount WOLMER

asked whether the Prime Minister's attention has been drawn to a resolution passed at a meeting of the general assembly of the Presbyterian Church of Ireland in Belfast on the 6th instant, declaring that the opposition of the Church to Home Rule continues as determined and unyielding as in the years 1886 and 1893, and recording its firm conviction that the present Home Rule Bill is a measure that would inflict incalculable injury on our country and our Church; whether he is aware that this resolution was carried by 921 votes to 43; that it was brought forward in response to a memorial signed by more than 130,000 laymen over sixteen years of age; and whether he intends to allow this resolution to influence his action in regard to the Government of Ireland Bill?

The PRIME MINISTER

I have seen what has appeared on this subject in the public Press. As I have already stated, the Government are prepared to give the most careful and sympathetic consideration to any proposals which may be brought forward for the insertion of further safeguards in the Bill.