§ 20. Colonel GRETTONasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if any of the former Government Departments in Dublin Castle have been wound up; if so, which of them; how many persons are now 1981 in employment in the former Government Departments and offices in Dublin Castle; and if there, has been any reduction of the numbers?
§ Sir H. GREENWOODWith the exception of the Chief Secretary's Office and the Office of the Inspector-General of the Royal Irish Constabulary, all the former Departments in Dublin Castle have now been taken over by the Provisional Government. The staff of the former office now consists of two British officials, who are engaged on matters arising out of the transfer of services to the Provisional Government and on matters connected with the disbandment of the Royal Irish Constabulary.
§ Colonel GRETTONIs the right hon. Gentleman aware of the very large number of employés in Dublin Castle and can he assure the House that with the exception of those mentioned, these are now struck off the pay list of this country?
§ Sir H. GREENWOODI thought my answer was perfectly clear. There is a large number of employés, partly employés of the Provisional Government and partly policemen themselves who are engaged in disbanding the force, and, as far as British officials are concerned, there are two.
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYWhen does the right hon. Gentleman himself expect to lay down the burden of his office?
§ Sir H. GREENWOODAt the earliest possible moment.
§ Sir C. YATEWill the right hon. Gentleman give the names of the two officials?