§ Sir JOHN BUTCHER (by Private Notice)asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether, in view of the fact that all or nearly all of the murders and other outrages recently committed in Ireland have been committed by men who drove to and from the scene of the outrages in motor cars, he has taken steps to seize and confiscate all motor cars which are driven by persons without permits, and, if so, with what success; and whether, if it be not possible effectively to seize and confiscate cars driven by murderous gangs and other unauthorised persons, he will consider the desirability of stopping all motor traffic other than police and military cars in such areas as may be proclaimed for that purpose by the Lord-Lieutenant?
§ Sir H. GREENWOODMotor traffic in Ireland is now under control by means of a system of permits enforced by inspection and picketing, and the question of imposing more stringent control in disturbed areas is now being considered by the military and police authorities. I may add that there is power under the Restoration of Order Regulations to seize and confiscate cars used in breach of the Regulations.
§ Sir J. BUTCHERCould my right hon. Friend say whether that Regulation has been enforced successfully, and, if so, in how many cases?
§ Sir H. GREENWOODI must ask for notice of detailed questions of that kind. Let me say that I am reluctant to interfere with the commercial and business life of Ireland any more than is necessary to secure the lives and protect the interests of well-disposed persons.