HC Deb 20 June 1921 vol 143 cc888-9
52. Mr. JAMES GARDINER

asked the Prime Minister if the Irish Department of Agriculture has employed counsel or is being legally represented at the Royal Commission on the Importation of Store Animals; has the Department other representatives in attendance in addition to legal representatives; will the expenses be provided out of public funds; and what will be the amounts payable?

The ATTORNEY-GENERAL for IRELAND (Mr. Denis Henry)

The Department of Agriculture and Technical Instruction for Ireland are being legally represented at the Royal Commission on the Importation of Store Cattle. In addition members of the Department's staff are in attendance from time to time to furnish the Commission with figures or other information as required. The expenses will be provided out of public funds. It is not at this stage possible to say what they will amount to.

Mr. GARDINER

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider whether it is fair and reasonable to provide counsel to help on one side of the inquiry, and to pay nothing on the other side

Mr. HENRY

The Department of Agriculture and Technical Instruction in Ireland are safeguarding one of the most important industries of the country.

Major M. WOOD

Are we to understand that they are representing the Government view in this matter?

Major NEWMAN

Are the Scottish Board of Agriculture providing their own counsel?

Mr. HENRY

They can if they like.

Major WOOD

Can I have an answer to my question? Are the Irish Department of Agriculture presenting the Government view on this question?

Mr. HENRY

They are presenting the view which they entertain with regard to Ireland.

Major WOOD

And is that view different from that held by the Government?

Mr. SPEAKER

It is impossible to discuss the question in this way.