§ 63. Mr. W. COOTEasked the Chief Secretary for Ireland if he is aware of the manner in which the recent local government elections were conducted in county Tyrone under Proportional Representation; that there was not adequate police protection in the Omagh district, and that Unionist voters were intimidated and dared not in isolated districts come to the poll; and will he, in face of the evidence cause an investigation of the facts?
§ Mr. HENRYI have heard statements made suggesting that intimidation was exercised in some isolated districts, and I am having inquiries made. There was adequate protection in Omagh district, but it is impossible to prevent anonymous documents being sent by post. It is open to any candidate to bring a petition before an Election Court if he can prove intimidation was exercised.
§ Mr. COOTEIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that on the night before the poll there were notices posted in isolated districts where there are few Protestants threatening them with death if they voted on the morrow? Is he aware that these Protestants very naturally were prevented recording their votes, and that as a result the complexion of the whole County Council has been changed? Will the right hon. Gentleman say whether it is proper or possible to set up the County Council under these conditions?
§ Mr. HENRYThat is a matter for the Election Court, which has full jurisdiction, and any candidate who can show there was intimidation can raise the question.
§ Mr. COOTEBut the County Council will meet on Saturday and will start proceedings, although these things have been done. Although the election may later on be set aside, they will have set up the Council, have elected the Chairman, and have co-opted members in the meantime.
1258 Is there no power to prevent them doing that until an investigation has taken place?