§ 59. Sir W. BYLESasked the Prime Minister the object of continuing martial law in Ireland at a moment when good will is so necessary; and how soon the country may look for the re-establishment of civil justice there?
§ 48. Mr. FARRELLasked the Prime Minister whether he proposes to still continue martial law for all Ireland, including areas where no disturbance of any kind took place; and whether, in view of the necessity of restoring a civil Executive at the earliest opportunity, he will remove martial law from all districts in which no disturbance took place immediately?
§ 64. Mr. LYNCHasked the Prime Minister whether, in addition to the reports of the military authorities, he receives communications from civilians competent to judge as to the effect of the continuance of martial law in Ireland; and whether, if it be made clear that martial law is extending the area of unrest and disaffection and increasing the spirit of resistance to the Government, he will take steps immediately to put an end to martial law?
§ Mr. LYNCHI beg to postpone my question as it is a matter affecting policy that can only be answered by the Prime Minister.
Mr. SAMUELThen I will answer the other two questions. Such action, for the maintenance of order, as the Government has been obliged to take has been taken under Statutory authority or the ordinary law. The Government are as anxious as my hon. Friend that the necessity for any exceptional action should cease.
§ Sir W. BYLESIs their any statutory authority for military absolutism when peace has been restored after a rebellion?
Mr. SAMUELI am not sure what my hon. Friend means by military absolutism. The action taken by the military authorities in Ireland at the present time is taken under the Defence of the Realm Act and not under the ordinary law.