HC Deb 18 November 1918 vol 110 cc3188-9
40. Mr. BOLAND

asked the Secretary to the Admiralty whether he will take steps to ascertain the exact number of men of Irish birth who were serving in the Navy at the outbreak of War, and of those of Irish birth who subsequently joined the Navy, or other services controlled by the Admiralty, in Ireland and in Great Britain?

Dr. MACNAMARA

Our records are not compiled in such a way as to enable this information to be given. In the circumstances, I think my hon. Friend will agree that the expenditure of time and labour involved in attempeting to furnish the information would not be justified.

Mr. MOONEY

Now that the War is over would it not be quite simple to have the record for the entries of birth?

Dr. MACNAMARA

The entry does show the place of birth, but it would mean considerable time. I will look into the matter.