§ 19. Mr. GINNELLasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is now in a position to state the policy of the new Government with reference to the Irish political prisoners now in this country, both those untried and those tried by secret court-martial; and when and to what extent the policy will come into operation?
§ Sir G. CAVEI am not able at present to add anything to the answers on these subjects which I gave last Thursday and Friday.
§ Mr. GINNELLWill the right hon. Gentleman make a statement on this subject before Christmas?
§ Sir G. CAVEI do not think I shall be able to do that.
§ 25. Mr. BYRNEasked the Chief Secretary for Ireland if he is aware of the ill-feeling and discontent in Ireland caused by the continued internment and imprisonment of the Irish prisoners; if he proposes to adopt any scheme to remove the ill-feeling; and if he will recommend their release and, pending release, that they should be treated in a manner suitable to prisoners of war?
§ The CHIEF SECRETARY for IRELAND (Mr. Duke)I have nothing at present to add to the answers which I have lately given on this subject.
§ Mr. BYRNEWhen may we expect some statement in connection with the Irish prisoners? Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that a number of parcels of foodstuffs that have been sent to Irish prisoners have been returned to Ireland, and that the prisoners have been denied parcels of food sent by their friends?
§ Mr. DUKEThat is not a matter which arises out of the question on the Paper. If the hon. Member puts down a question, I will make inquiries.