HC Deb 25 May 1921 vol 142 cc132-3
Major-General SEELY

(by Private Notice) asked the Chief Secretary whether it was a fact that on 15th May Cloncurry House, County Tipperary, the residence of Mrs. Tobin, an aged widow lady living alone with her daughter, both her sons having been killed in action in the late War, was completely broken up and demolished by armed forces of the Crown, although no incriminating documents or evidence of any kind existed; whether such an act is contrary to the policy of His Majesty's Government; and whether the Chief Secretary will issue orders prohibiting such actions in future?

Sir H. GREENWOOD

I am not aware of the facts stated in the right hon. and gallant Gentleman's question, which was submitted to me only two hours ago. Tipperary is in the martial-law area, and I shall at once ask the Commander-in-Chief for a report. The wanton destruction of property is, of course, not part of the policy of His Majesty's Government. Most definite orders have been issued by the Commander-in-Chief and the Chief of Police in reference to this question. I can assure my right hon. and gallant Friend that I shall give him the fullest report I receive from the Commander-in-Chief.

Major-General SEELY

With regard to the first part of the reply, of course the right hon. Gentleman could not answer at once on such short notice, but is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the facts are vouched for by the brother of this unfortunate lady, who is a much-respected resident of Ilkeston in this country? As to the second part of the answer, if, as appears possible, a terrible blunder has been committed in this case, and possibly in others, will the right hon. Gentleman see to it that compensation, so far as compensation is possible, shall be paid to this unfortunate widow lady for the damage done?

Sir H. GREENWOOD

I was aware of the facts only as stated by the hon. Member. As to compensation for innocent sufferers in that part of Ireland which is in a state of rebellion, or in any part of Ireland, that is a matter now before the Cabinet, and I cannot make any definite statement. It is a very serious question, and it has been before the Cabinet. I hope the Cabinet will be able to come to a decision. It is a question which involves many problems that do not appear on the surface.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Hear, hear!

Sir H. GREENWOOD

I wish the hon. and gallant Gentleman would treat this matter seriously.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

I wish you would.

Sir H. GREENWOOD

There is nothing the Government feels more serious about than the unfortunate suffering of innocent persons and their property, owing to the state of civil war now in Ireland.

Major-General SEELY

May we take it from the right hon. Gentleman that it is his policy to press upon the Cabinet that innocent sufferers shall be compensated, so far as compensation is possible?

Mr. SPEAKER

It is not usual to ask a Minister about what the Cabinet may do.

Colonel CLAUDE LOWTHER

If the assassins should prove to be Sinn Feiners in disguise, will the Leader of the House give an assurance that full publicity will be given to the fact?