HC Deb 16 July 1918 vol 108 cc895-6
57. Mr. KING

asked whether the teaching of the Gaelic (or Irish) language in national schools is encouraged or sup- ported by the Government; and whether he will give an assurance that the prohibition against singing Gaelic songs and the Proclamation of the Gaelic League will not be followed by suppressing the teaching of Gaelic in the schools nor the printing of Gaelic books and newspapers?

Mr. SAMUELS

The Commissioners of National Education make provision by means of special Grants for instruction in the Irish language in national schools in accordance with Regulations set forth in their code. As regards the second part of the question, I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given to his question on this subject on the 11th instant.

Mr. KING

Is the right hon. Gentleman not aware that emissaries of the law, the police and others, are preventing meetings being held where Gaelic songs are announced to be sung, and what is the object of preventing Gaelic songs being sung when you teach Gaelic in the schools in Ireland?

Mr. SPEAKER

There is nothing about Gaelic songs in the question.