HC Deb 13 July 1920 vol 131 cc2142-3
31. Colonel ASHLEY

asked the Secretary of State for Air whether he is aware that on the night of 30th June, 3,000 gallons of petrol conveyed in five wagons, consigned to the Royal Air Force, Oran-more, county Galway, were maliciously destroyed at Mullingar railway station; whether any escort of soldiers or police was in charge of the convoy; and what is the finding of the court of inquiry held to investigate this loss of public property?

Mr. CHURCHILL

From reports received, it appears that 3,000 gallons of petrol were looted at Mullingar while en route from Dublin by rail: 1,250 gallons were subsequently recovered. With regard to the second and third parts of the question, the report of the Court of Inquiry has not yet been received.

Colonel ASHLEY

Might I have an answer as to whether any escort of police or soldiers was sent with this enormous consignment?

Mr. CHURCHILL

My hon. and gallant Friend draws attention to a very serious omission in my answer, which I did not notice myself in examining the question, and if he will put it down again I will give a special answer to that next time.

Mr. ORMSBY-GORE

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this is not an isolated instance of looting of petrol on the Midland and Great Western Railway of Ireland, and that large consignments on other occasions recently have been taken by the Sinn Feiners without the British Government doing anything to look after these?