§ 35. Mr. LUNDONasked how long it is intended to keep Major Price, chief detective in Ireland; what are his duties; does he draw a double salary and, if so, what is the total amount of the same; is it a portion of his duty to try and connect the Irish Parliamentary party with the outbreak of Easter week; and, in view of the attacks made by him upon private individuals in Ireland who had no connection whatever with the Sinn Fein movement, will he be sent back to discharge his ordinary duties as county inspector of police?
Mr. SAMUELThe position and emoluments of Major Price were explained at length in reply to questions of the hon. Member for the Leix Division of Queen's County on the 23rd March and the 20th July last. No such duty as is suggested in the third inquiry in the question has been imposed on Major Price. I cannot say when the military authorities will be in a position to dispense with his services.
§ Mr. LUNDONWill the right hon. Gentleman inquire as to the allegation that he offered to release one of the leaders of the rebellion provided he could connect two hon. Members of this House with the Sinn Fein movement?
Mr. SAMUELPerhaps the hon. Gentleman will be good enough to send me the information on which he bases that statement.
§ Mr. BYRNEIs this the same Major Price as ordered the constabulary some time ago to fire on defenceless people?
Mr. SAMUELNo; it was another officer of the name of Price. But I am not sure that the account of the hon. Member of the occurrence is strictly accurate.