§ 13. Mr. MOSLEYasked the Chief Secretary for Ireland how many non-combatants, men, women, and children, have been killed by the Forces of the Crown since 22nd December last; and what is the estimated total value of the property destroyed in Ireland during that period by the Forces of the Crown, exclusive of the property destroyed by order under martial law?
§ Sir H. GREENWOODIt is not possible to give the exact number of non-combatants killed by the Crown Forces in Ireland during this period. The majority of these casualties have occurred in an exchange of lire following upon attacks on military and police lorries in crowded places, and although the real responsibility in such cases is obviously upon the Sinn Fein attackers, there can be no doubt that a certain proportion of the deaths have resulted unavoidably from the fire of the Crown Forces. In addition, 17 persons have been killed in resisting arrest, or in attempting to escape from custody, or owing to their failure to halt when challenged.
§ Mr. LAWSONIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that last November two auxiliaries deliberately walked into a house in Dublin, shot a young man—
§ Mr. SPEAKERThe question relates to events since the 22nd December.
§ Captain WEDGWOOD BENNWould the right hon. Gentleman answer Question No. 13, and state how many non-combatants have been killed?
§ Sir H. GREENWOODI have said that it is not possible to give the number.
§ Captain BENNWhy not?
§ Sir H. GREENWOODIt is impossible to answer that question off-hand.