HC Deb 02 June 1921 vol 142 cc1220-1
80. Mr. MOSLEY

asked the Chief Secretary whether he is aware that Father Clancy has repeated the allegation that he was prevented from celebrating mass in the village of Scariff, county Clare, on Sunday, the 24th April last, and compelled to accompany his parishioners, who were performing forced labour on road repair under the ægis of the forces of the Crown; and whether, in view of the detailed repudiation which Father Clancy has supplied to the Press of the account of this incident contained in his reply on the 13th May last, he will order a public and impartial inquiry into the whole affair?

Mr. HOPKINSON

On a point of Order. What does the word "ægis" mean?

Mr. MacVEAGH

That is not a point of Order!

Mr. SPEAKER

The hon. Gentleman had better consult a dictionary.

Sir H. GREENWOOD

The facts of the case were given by my right hon. and learned Friend the Attorney-General in his reply to the hon. Member on 13th May, and I do not propose to re-open the matter.

Mr. MOSLEY

In view of the fact that the person, who is alleged to have made these libellous accusations against the right hon. Gentleman, has furnished a direct repudiation to his answer, will the right hon. Gentleman allow a public inquiry so that the evidence on both sides shall be heard?

Mr. SPEAKER

That is just the question on the Paper, and that is what, as I said yesterday, takes up so much of the time of the House.