§ 12. Mr. KINGasked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether he has considered 1213 the evidence tendered in the trial of Dowling on 8th and 9th July and its relation to the German plot, which was the ground for interning a large number of Irishmen; whether he is aware that, so far from there being any evidence that Dowling was acting in concert with anyone in Ireland, the prosecution showed that no one appeared to help Dowling on landing, that he wandered aimlessly about, got drunk, received no support, but was quickly reported upon; and whether, as this allegation connected with the German plot is not confirmed, he will move the appointment of a Select Committee to report on the reasons for the internment without trial of the Irish prisoners now in English gaols?
§ Mr. MACPHERSONMy right hon. Friend has asked me to answer this question. The proceedings of the court-martial are still sub judice, and I cannot therefore make any comment on them. There does not appear to be any sufficient reason for the suggestion contained in the last part of the question.