HC Deb 24 February 1915 vol 70 c277
33. Mr. GINNELL

asked the Prime Minister, having regard to the unconditional pledge given by the Government on the 16th October, 1912, to deal with the completion of land purchase in Ireland at the earliest possible date, the failure to redeem that pledge, and the growing urgency of the need for its redemption, if he will say when and at whose instance the Government subjected that pledge to a condition precedent known to be impossible; and whether the Government hold that this condition subsequently created by themselves cancels their pledge to deal with the completion of land purchase?

The PRIME MINISTER

I would refer the hon. Member to the answers which I save on this subject on the 8th instant and 22nd July last. I must not be taken as admitting the accuracy of the statements in the question, and in the present circumstances legislation in this matter is admittedly impossible.

Mr. GINNELL

Would the right hon. Gentleman question the accuracy of the pledge given on his behalf in October, 1912 an unconditional pledge?