HC Deb 12 July 1918 vol 108 cc610-1
14. Mr. KING

asked the Prime Minister whether the recent prohibition of the use of the Gaelic language in public places in Ireland was considered and approved by the War Cabinet before put into force by the Irish authorities; and whether, in view of this prohibition conflicting with officially announced war aims of the Allies, he will give an assurance that the prohibition will be removed at the earliest possible opportunity?

Mr. BALDWIN (Joint Financial Secretary to the Treasury)

There has been no prohibition of the use of the Gaelic language in public places in Ireland.

Mr. KING

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that that view of the prohibition, whatever the prohibition may be, is not generally understood, and that people as they go about the streets call out to one another in the Gaelic language, "Good morning," when they never used that expression in that language before?

Mr. BALDWIN

I am very glad to have been able to give this answer.