§ Mr. S. MacNEILL (by Private Notice)asked the Under-Secretary of State for 1552 War if he will now state the precise Regulation under which the English Press Censor forbids religious emblems being sent to Irish Roman Catholic Prisoners of War by their relatives at home and what are the reasons on which that Regulation is founded?
§ Mr. MACPHERSONAs I stated yesterday, no insult is intended by the enforcement of a Rule which has been in existence for so long a time, and the only consideration has been the best interests and safety of the country. The Rule applies not merely to the articles referred to, but also to every article of similar material sent from any part of the country in which messages intended for the enemy might, by any possibility, be concealed. Every such article, I fear, must be examined, but my advisers are now considering how to do so as expeditiously as possible before they are forwarded to their destination.
§ Sir W. ESSEXWill the right hon. Gentleman issue such instruction as will enable such emblems to be sent to these poor fellows abroad—properly safeguarded, of course?
§ Mr. MACPHERSONI do not think my right hon. Friend heard my answer. That is exactly what I am doing.
§ Mr. DEVLINCan the right hon. Gentleman say by what methods people desirous of communicating with the enemy can do so by means of these emblems?
§ Mr. MACPHERSONI am informed there are emblems and emblems, and such communication has thus been made.