§ 51. Mr. BYRNEhad the following question on the Order Paper: To ask the Prime Minister whether, in the event of a Committee being appointed to inquire into the circumstances which brought about the recent disturbance in Ireland, he will give representation on such Committee to the trade union movement; and if he is prepared to receive a deputation and hear their views on the cause of dissatisfaction in Ireland?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for the HOME DEPARTMENT (Mr. Herbert Samuel)Except No. 51, which I can answer. I would refer the hon. Member to the statement made by the Prime Minister on the 10th instant on the constitution and powers of the Commission. From it he will see that the members were chosen for their administrative and judicial experience, and not as representing particular interests. The Commission will call any witnesses whose evidence they regard as relevant and useful. The last part of the question should be addressed to the Prime Minister on his return.
§ Mr. T. M. HEALYCan the right hon. Gentleman give us any information as to whether the Commission has decided to sit in pubic or private?
§ Mr. SAMUELNo, Sir.
§ Mr. BYRNEIn view of the fact that bad wages and bad housing are the principal causes of the disturbances, will not the right hon. Gentleman give the trade unionists the opportunity of giving their views on the matter to the Prime Minister?
§ Mr. SAMUELThat is a question which I suggest to the hon. Member he should defer till the return of the Prime Minister; he could then put the request for a deputation.