§ Colonel ASHLEY(by Private Notice) asked the Attorney-General for Ireland whether he is aware that for two whole days and nights during the week before last the city of Cork was in the hands of the mob; that motorists who did not produce Sinn Fein permits were given half an hour to clear out of the city; that no police or soldiers were visible in the streets by day or night on those days, 1217 and whether he can assure the House that an ample force of police and soldiers is now stationed in that city to deal with any fresh outbursts of mob violence, and that they will actually intervene if necessary?
§ The ATTORNEY-GENERAL for IRELAND (Mr. Denis Henry)It is not a fact that the city of Cork was in the hands of a mob for two days during the week before last. In the two days of the general strike hired motor cars were in some cases stopped by trade union pickets, and drivers persuaded to return to their garages. Trade union permits were given in some such cases to travel. There were no Sinn Fein permits issued. No violence was used and no complaints were made to the police. Police were on duty in the streets during the whole time and a party of military was in readiness to turn out if required. There were no disturbances. The existing police force in the city is considered ample to deal with anything that may arise
§ Colonel ASHLEYMay I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether, if I show him a letter which I have in my pocket from a private gentleman who went into Cork on those days and was turned out of Cork when he was driving his own private motor car, and his friend saw police and soldiers nowhere, he will take any action?
§ Mr. J. M. MILLSMore Bolshevik atrocities!
§ Mr. HENRYI communicated with the County Inspector of Cork, and the answer I have read is his answer.
§ Colonel ASHLEYVery likely.