§ 51. Lord H. CAVENDISH-BENTINCKasked the Prime Minister whether the Government will utilise the forthcoming elections in Ireland to effect a reconciliation with the Irish people; and whether, with that object in view, he will announce that the Government are prepared to give to Ireland the fullest self-government consistent with the unity and safety of the Empire, and that they will submit their scheme to the elected representatives of both Irish Parliaments?
§ The PRIME MINISTER (Mr. Lloyd George)As the House is aware, I have repeatedly stated that the Government are ready to meet representatives of the Irish people for the purpose of discussing any proposals which offer the prospect of reconciliation and settlement, subject only to the reservations that the strategic unity of the Empire must be safeguarded, and that Ulster must not be coerced. I have also repeatedly offered to give every facility 2045 and safe conduct for a meeting of the members of Dail Eireann, with the exception of four members accused of serious crime. To this invitation, which is still open, there has been no response.
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYMay I ask whether the condition of laying down arms before they can attend this conference is still maintained by the Government?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI have repeatedly explained to the House that no condition of that kind has ever been imposed as a preliminary to a meeting with Dail Eireann. That is purely in reference to the question of the truce.
§ Lord H. CAVENDISH-BENTINCKWill the right hon. Gentleman be prepared to meet the newly elected members without any reservations whatever?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThey must be subject to the same rules as even Members of this House are. If they are guilty of crime, they must be subject to the law of the land.
§ Lord H. CAVENDISH-BENTINCKAre the agents of the Government themselves entirely free from crime?