§ Earl WINTERTON(by Private Notice) asked the Secretary of State for War whether, in view of the fact that five British officers have been murdered in Ireland while off duty during the last few days, he proposes to take any steps to insure that officers in the disturbed parts of Ireland shall not leave barracks unless attended by an armed escort?
§ Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANSI have full confidence in the Commander-in-Chief in Ireland and I am sure that the suggestion of my Noble Friend will not have escaped his attention. I am convinced that he will do everything in his power to insure the safety of the officers and men under his command.
§ Earl WINTERTONIn view of the appalling effect on the moral of the troops in Ireland caused by these incidents, apart from their horror, and the fact that they have now been going on for many weeks without any action on his part, will the right hon. Gentleman make an announcement to the House as to what steps he proposes to take to protect those for whom he is responsible?
§ Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANSI do not feel that it is desirable to interfere with the discretion of the Commander-in-Chief in Ireland.
Lieut.-Colonel GUINNESSIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that this is 1086 practically the same answer that was given after 19 officers were killed one Sunday morning in Dublin? Is it not time now to give orders that officers are to go out only fully armed and in parties sufficient in number to defend themselves?
§ Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANSIf the Commander-in-Chief in Ireland thought that that was a possible and desirable course, I have not the slightest doubt that he would order it.
§ Colonel ASHLEYIs not the right hon. Gentleman responsible, not the Commander-in-Chief in Ireland?
§ Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANSAnd I am fulfilling my responsibilities through the Commander-in-Chief.
§ Earl WINTERTONShould questions on this subject be put in future to the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, who is responsible for the troops in Ireland and their well-being?
§ Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANSMy Noble Friend has put a question to me, and I have answered his question.