HC Deb 08 May 1922 vol 153 cc1773-4
27. Sir W. DAVISON

asked the Prime Minister whether his attention has been called to statements which have appeared in the Press to the effect that the Irish Free State Constitution, which has for some time been in the hands of the Provisional Government, has now been adopted by them; whether the said Constitution has been submitted to and approved by the British Government; and when it is intended to submit it to the British Parliament for discussion and approval?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN (Leader of the House)

My attention has been called to the statements referred to in the first part of the question, but I have no information as to whether or not they are true. The reply to the second part is in the negative. I am not yet in a position to reply to the third part.

Sir W. DAVISON

Are we to understand that the British Government have not received the Constitution or been consuited on its terms?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

Yes, Sir; my hon. Friend will make no mistake in always understanding what I say.

Sir W. DAVISON

I am amazed, but I wish to ask for information. How is it that the British Government have not been informed as to this Constitution, which has been completed?

Mr. SPEAKER

That is the same question for the third time.