HC Deb 19 November 1917 vol 99 cc853-4
46. Major NEWMAN

asked the Prime Minister whether he is aware of the campaign of misrepresentation carried on by members of the Irish Republican party and other agents of the Central Powers as to the oppressive character of British rule in Ireland; and if he will take steps to make it clear to our Allies and to neutral nations that, apart from the liability to military service, the citizens of Great Britain are ungrudgingly bearing restrictions on the liberty of the individual and the amenities of life which the necessity of war has imposed but from which Ireland, for political and other reasons, is exempt?

Mr. BONAR LAW

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. As to the second part, I doubt if the special action suggested by my hon. Friend is necessary.

Major NEWMAN

Would it not be possible for this country to do the same as the Central Powers and expose the treatment given to people like the Czechs, Bohemians, and Slays by Austria?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I have already said I do not think it is necessary nor do I think it is advisable. I do not propose to follow the example of the Central Powers in anything.