HC Deb 01 July 1920 vol 131 cc619-20
13. Captain FOXCROFT

asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether the County Council of County Donegal have granted the use of the Court-house in Ballyshannon for holding Republican Courts; and, if so, what steps the Government intend to take in the matter?

Sir H. GREENWOOD

My attention has been drawn to a Press notice to the effect mentioned in the question, but there is no evidence available to prove that the Court-house has been used for illegal purposes. If, and when, such evidence is obtained, then action will be taken.

Colonel ASHLEY

Will the right hon. and gallant Gentleman take steps to ascertain whether this is true or not, and not wait for private Members to tell him?

Mr. PALMER

May I ask if the right hon. and gallant Gentleman is yet convinced of the fact that there are such. things—he denied it the other day—as illegal Courts in Ireland?

Sir H. GREENWOOD

I am convinced that there are a great many irregular gatherings called Courts in Ireland—

Mr. PALMER

At which barristers appear!

Sir H. GREENWOOD

At which some barristers are alleged to have appeared.

Mr. PALMER

Do appear!

Sir H. GREENWOOD

It is impossible for the Secretary for Ireland to take legal steps until we have evidence, which is legal.

HON. MEMBERS

Get evidence!