HC Deb 23 February 1916 vol 80 c699
81. Mr. GINNELL

asked the Chief Secretary when the decision was arrived at, and by whom, that instead of exterminating the Irish people they would be prevented leaving Ireland, even when they have business and promise to return; what law, if any, authorises this; whether he can name any Irish representative body which approves of it; and what is the explanation of such a refusal in the case of Patrick Burns, which has been brought under his notice?

Mr. BIRRELL

By an Order in Council of 30th November last amending the Regulations under the Defence of the Realm Acts it was provided that no passenger should embark at any port in the United Kingdom without a valid passport or a permit, which in the case of British subjects resident in Ireland might be given by the Lord Lieutenant. In the interests of the country such documents are not issued to males capable of doing useful work except in special circumstances, which were not shown to exist in the case mentioned by the hon. Member.