§ 55. Mr. WEDGWOODasked the Chief Secretary for Ireland why the Press were excluded from the suffragette trial in the Belfast Police Court on Tuesday, 21st April; and by whose orders this was done?
§ Mr. BIRRELLI am informed that on the occasion referred to the public and the Press were excluded from the Court by order of the resident magistrate under the powers vested in him by Statute.
§ Mr. WEDGWOODAre we to understand that in Ireland the resident magistrate has power to try a case in camera?
§ Mr. BIRRELLNo person, with the exception of the attorney or counsel has the right to enter the Court except with his permission.
§ Mr. WEDGWOODIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that serious charges have been made regarding the arrest, without warrant, and searching of this woman?
§ Mr. BIRRELLI am not aware of that.