HC Deb 28 March 1922 vol 152 cc1122-3
28. Mr. WATERSON

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies the date on which the Trish Indemnity Bill will be introduced; and whether the proposed Commission to inquire into claims for compensation in respect of damage to property has yet been appointed?

Sir H. GREENWOOD

My right hon. Friend regrets that he is not yet in a position to say when it will be possible to introduce the Irish Indemnity Bill. He hopes to be able to make a definite statement regarding the appointment and constitution of the Commission referred to in the last part of the question very shortly.

Mr. WATERSON

Does not my right hon. Friend see the necessity of expediting the appointment of the Commission, seeing that trade is deflated in Ireland and that it would increase employment to get these works going again?

Sir H. GREENWOOD

I am fully aware of that, and no avoidable delay is existing.

Mr. WATERSON

Will the right hon. Gentleman give a promise that it will be appointed before Easter?

Mr. DEVLIN

Shall we have an opportunity of discussing these names before the Commission functions?

Sir H. GREENWOOD

I cannot promise that, but full opportunity will be given on the Bill of Indemnity.

Mr. DEVLIN

Will the Bill of Indemnity come on this side of Easter?

Sir H. GREENWOOD

I cannot say.