HC Deb 24 May 1916 vol 82 cc2085-6
63. Mr. HAZLETON

asked the Prime Minister if his attention has been called to the fact that Lord Midleton forwarded to the Irish Government some time ago a Report on the state of Ireland drawn up by a number of Unionists in Dublin; and whether, in view of the fact that Lord Midleton declined to give the names of these persons to the Hardinge Commission, he will now communicate them to the House?

The PRIME MINISTER

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. With regard to the second part of the question I have no knowledge whatever of these names.

Mr. DILLON

Will the right hon. Gentleman kindly say whether those parts of the evidence which have been given in secret will be communicated to the Members of the House?

The PRIME MINISTER

I must consult the Commission on that subject. The members are their own masters in the matter of procedure, and they are an absolutely independent body.

Mr. DILLON

I must press the right hon. Gentleman on this point. Is it just that evidence given in which the names of Members of this House may be implicated should be kept from the knowledge of hon. Members?

The PRIME MINISTER

I do not think it will be. I will communicate with the chairman.