HC Deb 23 February 1916 vol 80 cc686-7
34. Mr. GINNELL

asked the Postmaster-General, seeing that French and Welsh are freely spoken on the telephone here why the use of Irish on the telephone is not allowed in Ireland while numerous operators there understand the language?

Mr. PEASE

During war time foreign enemy languages are not permitted on the telephone, and operators have instructions that such communications shall not be allowed. Welsh, Gaelic and Irish are permitted, but some operators have difficulty in recognising these languages. I shall be glad if the hon. Member can give me instances where the use of Irish has been stopped, and I will do my best to see that it shall not occur again.