§ 66. Mr. GINNELLasked the Secretary of State for War whether the trial of Dr. Richard Hayes, of Lusk, county Dublin, was by secret court-martial; what was the reason for the secrecy; whether counsel on his behalf was allowed to raise the question of the legality of trying by court-martial in secret; whether any evidence was produced that Dr. Hayes had any other connection with the occurrence at Ashbourne than as a medical man giving professional aid to wounded men irrespective of the side to which they belonged; whether the sentence of twenty years' penal servitude for this will be reconsidered; and whether his motor car has yet been restored to those in charge of his property?
§ Mr. FORSTERThe procedure at the trial of Dr. Richard Hayes was in no way different to that adopted at the trial of other prisoners tried by Field General Court-Martial. The Court found the prisioner guilty on evidence which convinced them that his actions were not solely confined to giving professional aid to wounded men. Owing to the serious nature of the offence it is not possible, at present, to make any statement regarding a reconsideration of the sentence. Inquiries will be made as to the motor car.
§ Mr. GINNELLWas not this court-martial held in secret?
§ Mr. FORSTERI do not know,
§ Mr. GINNELLIt is asked on the Paper?