§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY (by Private Notice)asked the Chief Secretary whether Dermot O'Sullivan, aged 17 years, has been sentenced to death in connection with the Drumcondra ambush on 21st January last; whether he is aware that the evidence against this youth is not conclusive; and whether it is intended to execute a youth of 17 years of age on such evidence?
§ Sir H. GREENWOODIt is the case that Dermot O'Sullivan with four other civilians have been sentenced to death by a general court-martial. As regards the remainder of the question, I can only repeat what I have already stated in reply to similar questions put by hon. Members in other recent cases, that I must decline to discuss in this House either the evidence on which the court based their finding, or the advice which it may be my duty to tender to the Lord Lieutenant. The House may be assured that every relevant consideration will be carefully weighed in this, as in every other case, before a final decision is taken.
§ Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHYMay I ask the right hon. Gentleman if he himself has seen the evidence, and is he aware that there is some grave doubt about the matter in regard to the identification?
§ Mr. STANTONBy whom were you briefed?
§ Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHYBy the mother.
§ Mr. STANTONWhy were you briefed, you traitor?
§ Mr. DEVLINDoes the right hon. Gentleman not think it very undesirable to have a boy of 17 years executed, apart 2000 from the fact that the evidence is not of a character altogether to justify an execution?
§ Lieut.-Commander ASTBURYIs it not a fact that most of these murders and assassinations are carried out by youths who are Irish gunmen from America?
§ Sir H. GREENWOODI do not think I can add anything usefully to what I have already said.