HC Deb 09 November 1916 vol 87 c397
70. Mr. LYNCH

asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the danger of keeping open the Irish question, he will consider the suggestion of a conference of which the members shall be the Prime Ministers or representatives appointed by the respective Governments of Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Canada, and Great Britain, and the leaders of the Nationalist and Unionist parties in Ireland; and, if so, whether the terms of reference will be such as to allow of free treatment of the problem along the lines of the greatest and boldest conceptions of democratic government and future development?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I do not think it would be practicable during the War to ask the Dominion statesmen to undertake the duties suggested in the question.

Mr. LYNCH

Would it not be an advantage to have an expression of their corporate opinion in favour of Home Rule?

Mr. BONAR LAW

There would be advantages, bat there would also be disadvantages.

Mr. FLAVIN

What would the disadvantages be?