§ 51. Mr. GINNELLasked the Prime Minister whether, in creating a favourable atmosphere for the Irish Convention by releasing the Irish political prisoners now in penal servitude under sentences of secret courts-martial, he will see that the Countess Marckiewicz is not forgotten; and whether Irish political prisoners for shorter terms than penal servitude, and all banished from Ireland without charge or trial, will also be released to contribute to the desired atmosphere?
§ 52. Mr. MacVEAGHasked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the importance of allaying discontent and ill-feeling in all parts of Ireland, he can now make any statement with regard to the complete amnesty of all the rebellion prisoners and the withdrawal of martial law, so that the Convention may meet with hopes of success and general good will?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWI cannot add anything to the answers already given beyond saying that the subject is being considered by the Government, and that a decision will be announced immediately.
§ Mr. LYNCHCan the right hon. Gentleman state the object for which these men are being kept in prison? Does the Government simply pursue a policy of drift on this question, as on many others?
§ 59. Mr. BYRNEasked the Prime Minister if he is aware that the Irish people have lost all confidence in the present Government; and if, in order to obtain justice for the Irish prisoners, he will allow representatives of the Irish people to proceed to America, Australia, and Russia to seek their aid and to seek protection for Ireland?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWThe answer to both parts of the question is in the negative.