HC Deb 04 March 1919 vol 113 c220
65. Major O'NEILL

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he can give any information as to the circumstances in which the hon. Member for East Clare and other Sinn Fein leaders escaped recently from Lincoln Prison; whether an inquiry has been or will be held to investigate the matter; and whether he is aware that the hon. Member for East Clare has issued a statement or manifesto to his supporters since his escape?

Mr. SHORTT

A full inquiry was held immediately after the escape, which showed that egress from the prison was obtained by a forged key, in the preparation of which the internees had been assisted by friends outside the prison. This was facilitated by the fact that the internees are allowed to associate much more freely than ordinary prisoners, and are not subject to such close supervision. As regards the last part of the question, I believe that a statement was issued, but I am not aware of its exact nature.

Major O'NEILL

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether the inquiry disclosed the method by which the original key was obtained?

Mr. SHORTT

The inquiry did disclose the means.

Major O'NEILL

Is there any truth in the statements which have been made to the effect that this escape was facilitated by women enveigling the sentries from their posts?

Mr. SHORTT

No. None of the sentries have any knowledge of any of the ladies.