§ 67. Mr. HOGGEasked the Chief Secretary for Ireland if he will state what is the precise charge on which the directors of the "Freeman's Journal" are being, court-martialled?
§ Sir H. GREENWOODThe directors of the "Freeman's Journal" are charged under Regulation 27 (a) and (b) of the Regulations under the Restoration of Order in Ireland Act with spreading a false report, and a report intended or likely to cause disaffection. As the case is now sub judice, the hon. Member will 1737 see that it is not possible for me to furnish him with further information at the moment.
§ Mr. DEVLINIs it not the fact that the reason the "Freeman's Journal" is prosecuted is because it attacked the right hon. Gentleman and the Prime Minister?
§ Sir H. GREENWOODIt is not!
§ Mr. DEVLINWhy, if English papers publish—[HON. MEMBERS: "Order!"]—I am going to put my question! Why, then, have English newspapers that have published similar reports not been prosecuted?
§ Sir H. GREENWOODI am not responsible for English newspapers, or for what they publish.
§ Mr. DEVLINYou dare not do it!
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYIs there an attempt to hide the truth by intimidating the Press in Ireland as well as the people?
§ Mr. DEVLINAnd by intimidating the people.