HC Deb 07 March 1918 vol 103 cc2110-1
21. Captain SHEEHAN

asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether he will consider the desirability of a purely Irish council or advisory body being immediately set up to deal with the questions of Irish reconstruction after the War; whether he is aware that no practical steps have been so far taken to deal with the interests of Ireland in this matter; and whether he will take steps to have a special Department set up immediately for the consideration and handling of Irish reconstruction problems?

Mr. SAMUELS

I cannot add anything to the answer given by the Minister of Reconstruction to a similar question put by the hon. and gallant Member on Tuesday last.

Captain SHEEHAN

The right hon. Gentleman has not answered the second part of the question as to what steps are being taken to resettle these men on the land in Ireland?

Mr. SAMUELS

I think the answer implies that nothing at present has been done, but the matter is being considered.

Captain SHEEHAN

The real position is that we want something to be done, and we want to know when it is going to be done?

Mr. SAMUELS

I can give no further answer.