§ 45. Lord H. CAVENDISH-BENTINCKasked the Prime Minister whether the Government intends to declare an amnesty for political prisoners?
§ 47. Mr. KINGasked the Prime Minister whether before the General Election the Government will order an amnesty of those prisoners who are at present in prison for offences under the Defence of the Realm and Military Service Acts on charges involving no moral turpitude and many without trial; and especially whether the Irish political prisoners in English gaols will be allowed freedom and facilities in cases where they are Parliamentary agents or candidates?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWI am unable to make any statement on this subject at present.
§ Mr. KINGCan we be assured that the case of the Irish prisoners who are candidates for Parliament is under consideration, or does the Government intend to put all political opponents into prison in order to secure a walk over?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWOh, no! To put some of them in prison would increase their chances. All I can say is that the subject is being considered.
§ Mr. LOUGHCan the right hon. Gentleman say when he will give a decision on this matter; will it be when he makes an announcement about the General Election?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWI cannot make any promise about it.