HC Deb 26 October 1916 vol 86 c1319
20. Mr. GRAHAM

asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether, in the interest of the peace of King's County, he will instruct the Inspector-General of the Royal Irish Constabulary to make such changes in the headquarter staff at Tullamore as will ensure the confidence of the public in the impartial discharge of the police duties in the county?

Mr. DUKE

I have no reason to believe, apart from the suggestion in the question, that there is any want of confidence on the part of the public in the impartial discharge of police duties in King's county.

21. Mr. GRAHAM

asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether his attention has been called to the comments of County Court Judge Drummant at the Quarter Sessions held in Tullamore last week when granting compensation for damage done by the mob at Tullamore on 21st March last, in respect of the action of the constabulary on the occasion; and whether he intends to take any action in the matter?

Mr. DUKE

I have called for the papers relating to this matter.

Mr. GRAHAM

Will not the right hon. Gentleman recognise that there is a grave want of confidence in the Headquarters Staff, and that, as a matter of fact, the people consider it is a public scandal?

Mr. DUKE

No representation of that kind has come to me except the suggestion the hon. Member makes in his question. If such representation came from any responsible person, it would be the duty of the Chief Secretary's Office to investigate it.