HC Deb 28 April 1920 vol 128 cc1223-4
58. Mr. R. McNEILL

asked the Prime Minister whether he has any official information in regard to a manifesto issued in Washington by an organisation known as the Philippines Commission of Independence, in which it is maintained that American belief in the principle of self-determination would be demonstrated more impressively by conceding the repeated demand made for independence by 10½ million inhabitants of the Philippines than by passing resolutions in the Senate expressing sympathy with the cause of Irish independence; and whether, as a mark of respect for the American Senate, he will enable this House to follow the precedent set by that Assembly, by moving a Resolution in support of the Philippine demand for self-determination?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I have no information with regard to the manifesto in question, and the matter does not seem to be one with which His Majesty's Government is concerned.

Mr. McNEILL

If the Government is not concerned, will the Leader of the House give facilities for discussion if a group of Irish Members put down a resolution of sympathy with the Philippines?

Mr. BONAR LAW

As the Government is not concerned, I do not think that it is the duty of the Government to take any steps of the kind suggested.

Mr. DEVLIN

As the House is primarily interested in its own affairs, would it not be well if the group of Irish Members put down a motion in favour of self-determination for Ireland?

Sir E. CARSON

Is it not better for each country to leave the other country alone?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I thought that that was my answer.

Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHY

Leave Ireland alone.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Leave Montenegro alone.

Mr. DEVLIN

Does the right hon. Gentleman agree with the suggestion of the right hon. Member for Duncairn (Sir E. Carson) that you should let Ireland alone?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I do not accept the suggestion that Ireland is a foreign country, and I would be very thankful if Ireland were to leave us alone.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

It is a hostile country, thanks to you.

Captain LOSEBY

Do not be offensive.