HC Deb 26 October 1916 vol 86 cc1281-2
34. Mr. BYRNE

asked the Home Secretary if the result of the court-martial on Patrick Daly at Frongoch is yet declared?

Mr. SAMUEL

The answer is in the negative.

Mr. BYRNE

By what law or warrant are untried and unconvicted prisoners court-martialled?

Mr. SAMUEL

I have already answered that question. This is not a court-martial, but a disciplinary military court, such as may be held under the Royal Warrant dealing with disciplinary matters in any internment camp.

37. Mr. BYRNE

asked the Home Secretary if he will state the number of prisoners who were sent to terms of punishment during their stay at Frongoch camp; what the punishment was for; how many were court-martialled; and by what law courts-martial were held on untried Irish prisoners?

Mr. SAMUEL

I have not had time to obtain a complete return since the hon. Member's question appeared on the Paper; but, as regards punishments imposed since 15th July, I would refer the hon. Member to the printed reply I am giving to-day to the hon. Member for North Westmeath. One man has been sent before a military court, which can be held upon an interned prisoner in pursuance of the Defence of the Realm Regulations 14b.

Mr. BYRNE

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that within the last six weeks 180 men have been sentenced to various terms for refusing to clean out the soldiers' lavatories, and is that work for untried Irish prisoners?

Mr. SAMUEL

There is another question on this subject.