5. Mr. G WYNNEasked the Chief Secretary for Ireland, in view of the fact that by the Act for the ratification of the Treaty the number of soldiers that can be raised by the Provisional Government is fixed in proportion to those employed by the Imperial Government, what steps have been taken by His Majesty's Government to ensure that this provision shall be observed; whether he will state what, is the number of men at present on the strength of the Free State Army; and if he can say what is the form of oath taken by such recruits?
§ The CHIEF SECRETARY for IRELAND (Sir Hamar Greenwood)As the House, was informed last Thursday, if and when, as a result of the elections shortly to be held, the Free State is established in Ireland, the provisions of 527 Article 8 of the Treaty will come into force, and their strict observance will be an object of legitimate inquiry by His Majesty's Government. Meanwhile, as the House is fully aware, the position is one of great difficulty. His Majesty's Government are quite satisfied that the forces at the disposal of the Provisional Government are within the proportion contemplated by the Treaty, but it would not be fair to the Provisional Govern-men for me to give a more definite reply to this question in the present circumstances. I am informed that no oath is taken by recruits.
§ Mr. GWYNNEWill the right hon. Gentleman make special inquiries as to whether the oath is the same as that which was taken by the Irish Republican Army?
§ Sir H. GREENWOODI have done that. Since this question was put on the Paper I have been making inquiries and I am informed that no oath is taken by recruits.
Mr. G. MURRAYWhen will the elections take place, and will they be pushed on, in view of the conditions in Ireland at the present moment?
§ Mr. SPEAKERPerhaps the hon. Member will give notice of that question. It does not arise here.
§ Sir JAMES REMNANTIs an oath necessary in the case of the soldiers of the Free State?
§ Sir H. GREENWOODThat is really not a question that should be asked of me.
§ Sir J. REMNANTHas not the right hon. Gentleman boasted several times in this House that he was responsible for all law and order in Ireland?
§ Sir H. GREENWOODNo, Sir. I must disclaim, and the Government disclaims, any responsibility for law and order since the transfer of powers on 1st April last.