HC Deb 29 November 1916 vol 88 cc330-1
49. Mr. GINNELL

asked the Secretary of State for War whether the Cabinet has sanctioned the present policy of successive courts-martial on young Irishmen for no offence but passive disregard of orders of British military officers whom they never undertook to obey and refuse to recognise; and if he will say to what number of men of this disposition, and to what number of successive courts-martial on each, has the Cabinet consented?

Mr. FORSTER

No, Sir; His Majesty's Government have not sanctioned any policy which in any way answers to the description which the hon. Member gives, and consequently no such policy is being followed.

Mr. GINNELL

Is the hon. Gentleman not aware of John Nunam being at present subjected to that particular force?

Mr. FORSTER

The hon. Member is asking me whether the Government have sanctioned that particular policy?

Mr. GINNELL

Yes.

Mr. FORSTER

I say they have not.