§ 14. Mr. T. P. O'CONNORasked the Secretary of State for War how many soldiers have been killed or wounded during the weeks of rioting in Belfast; what steps the War Department are taking for the protection of these troops; and whether they have called upon the Ulster Government for aid in such measures?
§ Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANSThe casualties since the 1st January have been 2 killed and 12 wounded. The military authorities, acting in co-operation with the civil power, have re-inforced the garrison, and are employing all measures which experience shows to be desirable to secure the best possible results. There have been some arrests, but I am not in possession of the particulars.
§ Mr. O'CONNORIs it not a fact that, in spite of the precautions to which this right hon. Gentleman has alluded, the 208 number of murders and incendiary fires have not increased almost weekly in a large degree?
§ Mr. REIDIs it not a fact that Lieutenant Bruce, one of the two soldiers killed, was off duty when he was murdered, and was passing through the streets of a strictly Catholic area?
§ Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANSI really have not the facts to which my hon. Friend refers. The other question put to me is so general that I find a difficulty in replying specifically to it. If the hon. Member will give me any further details, I will do my best to reply.