§ 39. Sir O. THOMASasked the Home Secretary if his attention has been drawn to the fact that a London daily newspaper is asserting day by day the truth of an interview with the Lord-Lieutenant of Ireland, which the Lord-Lieutenant has repudiated; and whether he intends to prosecute the proprietor and editor of the newspaper under the Defence of the Realm Regulations or otherwise?
§ Mr. SHORTTI have seen the assertions referred to, but I am not aware of any Defence of the Realm Regulation or other provision of the law under which a prosecution could be instituted.
§ Sir O. THOMASIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that this newspaper, the "Daily Express," can prove the truth of its assertions, and does the Government think that Lord French's character is not worth defending?
§ Mr. SHORTTI have already said I know of no process of law by which I can institute proceedings.
§ Mr. SHORTTI have not considered that.
§ Mr. MacVEAGHHe will not do it.