HC Deb 30 April 1918 vol 105 cc1391-2
29. Major NEWMAN

asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether he is aware that seventeen of His Majesty's Counsel in Ireland have pledged themselves to resist the application of the Military Service Act take Ireland; and whether it is intended to take any notice of their action?

The CHIEF SECRETARY for IRELAND (Mr. Duke)

The matter is under the consideration of the Attorney-General for Ireland.

30. Major NEWMAN

asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether he is aware that threats are being used to compel the scattered loyalist population in the three southern provinces of Ireland to sign a pledge to resist the operation of the Military Service Act; and what measures he proposes to take to protect these citizens from being forced to become law-breakers against their will?

Mr. DUKE

No report has been received by the constabulary of any intimidation to compel persons to sign a pledge to resist Conscription.

Major NEWMAN

Will the right hon. Gentleman or the Irish Government look into the Anti-Conscription League at Hume-street, Dublin, and inquire what they are doing?

Mr. DUKE

That does not arise out of the question.

Mr. PENNEFATHER

May I ask what steps His Majesty's Government will take if cases of such intimidation are brought to their notice?

Mr. DUKE

We will deal with them when they arise—not before.

34. Mr. BUTCHER

asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the fact that the application of Conscription to Ireland has been sanctioned by an Act of Parliament, he has obtained any advice as to the illegality of the present conspiracy in Ireland to render the enforcement of Conscription in Ireland impossible; and, if he has not obtained any such advice, whether he will consult the law officers of the Crown?

Mr. DUKE

I have been asked to reply to this question. The Government is, of course, aware of the facts to which my hon. and learned Friend refers and will be advised as occasion may require upon the questions of law which arise.

Mr. BUTCHER

Is my right hon. Friend aware that while we are awaiting that advice this conspiracy is daily assuming more dangerous proportions and is becoming more and more difficult to deal with?

Mr. DUKE

I am aware of the facts which my hon. and learned Friend tells me as to the extent of what he describes as a conspiracy and the public danger involved.

Mr. PRTNGLE

Do the Government intend to apply Conscription to Ireland in view of the fact that the successor of the right hon. Gentleman has voted against it in this House?

Mr. DUKE

That raises so many questions of debate that I think I must not attempt to deal with it.

Mr. PRINGLE

Put it to the Prime Minister.