§ 49. Mr. ANDERSONasked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the effort to create a better atmosphere in Ireland by the release of the Sinn Fein prisoners and in view of the present effort to remove unrest in the labour world, he will consider the question of releasing from prison John Maclean, M.A., of Glasgow, who, in April, 1916, was sentenced to-three years' penal servitude for a speech made at the time of the labour troubles on the Clyde; whether he is aware that the convict prison is having effect on the mental and physical health of this man and that his long imprisonment embitters labour feeling, especially among the Clyde workmen; and, since there was admitted conflict of evidence at the time of the trial, and since Maclean has now served fourteen months in prison, and since his release would promote better feeling in the labour world and assist the-work of the Commissioners now investigating the causes of industrial unrest, will he say whether the Government propose to take any action in the matter?
§ Mr. MUNROThe case of John Maclean is at present the subject of inquiry and consideration, in view of representations which I have received from various quarters.
§ Mr. WATTIn view of the fact that prisoners have been liberated belonging to other nationalities, does my right hon. Friend not think it wise now to release these men?