§ Colonel Sir J. CRAIG (by Private Notice)asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether paragraph 5 of the Proclamation of the Lord Lieutenant which was issued yesterday, calling for recruits in Ireland, states that men who come forward to fight for their Motherland will be rewarded by a grant of land, and whether, in order to prevent misunderstanding and disappointment, he will take immediate steps to define explicitly the area in which such land is available, the number of acres to which each recruit is entitled, and the tenure proposed?
§ Mr. SHORTTThe necessary measures are under consideration at present, and a definite statement will be made as soon as possible.
§ Sir J. CRAIGWill the right hon. Gentleman take particular precaution from the very outset that there is no misleading temptation held out to any man in this regard, and also take steps to see that any proposals that are made are retrospective?
§ Mr. SHORTTThat will be borne in mind.
§ Mr. SHORTTYes. The Bill has for some little time been in course of drafting.
Mr. HARRISHow can land be guaranteed if it is necessary to pass legislation to provide land— the Bill might not go through this House or the other House?
§ Mr. PENNEFATHERWill a preference be given to Irishmen over Englishmen, Scotsmen, or Welshmen who have volunteered?
§ Mr. SHORTTI am responsible only for the Irish Office.
Mr. PRI NGLEWill similar facilities be given to British soldiers who have been conscripted as are being granted to Irishmen who are being bribed?