HC Deb 22 April 1920 vol 128 cc537-8
13. Lieut.-Colonel MALONE

asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether Mr. Cathal O'Shannon, editor of the " Watch- word of Labour," has been arrested; whether he is being detained in prison; and what charge, if any, has been preferred against him?

Mr. HENRY

This man is under arrest. He is being proceeded against under the Criminal Law and Procedure (Ireland) Act, on the charge of unlawful assembly.

Lieut.-Colonel MALONE

Is that because he called a general strike?

Mr. HENRY

No, Sir, but because it, was considered that he was guilty of un- lawful assembly.

Mr. DEVLIN

Is this gentleman's offence that he is editor of the "Watch- word of Labour?" Is there any other charge against him?

Mr. HENRY

I have already said that the charge against him is that of unlawful assembly.

Mr. DEVLIN

Has he been tried for that offence?

Mr. HENRY

No, Sir.

Mr. DEVLIN

Will the right hon. Gentleman say why he was not tried?

Mr. HENRY

We hope to try him as speedily as possible.