HC Deb 21 June 1917 vol 94 cc1933-4
6. Mr. GINNELL

asked whether it was by the civil or by the military authorities that it was decided to disregard the opinion of the inspectors of the Dublin Metropolitan Police that the proposed public meeting in Beresford Place would be peaceful if allowed to proceed, and that trouble would be caused by suppressing it; and, as the result shows the correctness of that opinion, whether the policy of forcibly suppressing public meetings convened for lawful purposes will be discontinued?

Mr. DUKE

The question is founded on an entirely unwarranted assumption.

7. Mr. GINNELL

asked why the Government proclaimed a public meeting convened in Limerick city to give expression to the public indignation at the chaining and general ill-treatment of Irish political prisoners in penal servitude in England under sentences of secret courts-martial; and under what power and for what purpose a large force of police was drafted into Limerick on that occasion?

Mr. DUKE

This meeting was prohibited on the ground that it was likely to lead to a breach of the peace. The force of police which was drafted into Limerick was that which in the opinion of the responsible officers was required for the occasion.

Mr. GINNELL

On whose evidence was it assumed that there was danger of a breach of the peace?

Mr. DUKE

That is a matter on which I do not propose to answer any questions.

Mr. GINNELL

Was it not only from the police themselves that danger was apprehended?

Mr. DUKE

I have nothing to add to what I have said.