HC Deb 11 July 1918 vol 108 cc482-3
14. Mr. KING

asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether all meetings, processions, or assemblies have, under a Defence of the Realm Act Regulation, been prohibited in Ireland unless seven clear days' notice is given and authorisation obtained from the Chief Commissioner of the Dublin Metropolitan Police or a county inspector of the Royal Irish Constabulary; and how many such authorisations have been given for Orange demonstrations, meetings, etc., on 12th July?

Mr. SHORTT

The answer to the first part of the question of the hon. Member is in the affirmative, but instructions were given to county inspectors in every county not to press the seven days' notice in the case of meetings which had already been arranged. Each case of Orange demonstrations will be considered on its merits by the county inspector, and will be subject to the same conditions as any other demonstration.

Mr. KING

Has the right hon. Gentleman considered the songs that are to be sung at the Orange demonstrations, samples of which are given in the "Daily Chronicle" this morning?

Mr. SHORTT

No, I have not, but I have no doubt the county inspectors have.

Major NEWMAN

Will the Union Jack be displayed at these Orange meetings?

Mr. SHORTT

The hon. and gallant Gentleman had better refer that to the people who run the meetings. I do not know.

Mr. KING

Will the Orange flag be displayed?

Mr. SHORTT

I do not know.