§ Mr. DONALD (by Private Notice)asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether the Government will give any particulars regarding the Ulster Volunteer patrol who, acting in place of the police near Enniskillen, encountered a large party of Sinn Feiners, who fired upon them; and whether any were killed or wounded?
§ No reply was given.
§ Mr. DONALD(later): On a point of Order, Mr. Speaker. In view of the fact that I last night forwarded the question which I put a little while ago, addressed to the Chief Secretary for Ireland, and marked "Private Notice Question," can I have an answer to it? The matter is a very important one.
§ Mr. SPEAKERI believe the Chief Secretary is in Ireland. [HON. MEMBERS: The Attorney-General!]
§ Mr. DONALDMay I have an answer from the Prime Minister? According to Press reports, there has been a pitched battle, in which several Sinn Feiners have been wounded. I am, I may say, delighted to hear that.
§ The PRIME MINISTERI very much regret that my right hon. and learned Friend is not here. He was here earlier in the proceedings. I am afraid notice of the question of the hon. Member must have miscarried, for my right hon. and learned Friend is the last man in the 580 world to pay no attention to a matter of this sort. Therefore, I am very much afraid that this very interesting piece of information may not have reached him. Later, I shall be very glad to convey what information there is to the hon. Member.
§ Sir E. CARSONAs this matter is a very important one, and may lead to very serious consequences, may I ask my right hon. Friend that if any information be received during the day, we may, at the adjournment, have an announcement as to what really occurred.
§ The PRIME MINISTERI will take steps immediately to communicate with the Irish Office, and will see that the House is informed on the subject.