§ 60. Mr. HEALYasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if, in view of the fact that a sum was allocated from public funds to the Irish Distress Committee in London for the relief of people who had to leave the Free State during 1922, he will recommend that a like amount be given for the relief of the thousands who were obliged to leave their homes in Northern Ireland, many of whom are now destitute?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for the HOME DEPARTMENT (Mr. Arthur Henderson)I have been asked to reply to this question. The hon. Member is under a misapprehension. The Irish Grants Committee is not restricted by its terms of reference to the assistance of refugees from the Irish Free State, but also empowered to recommend grants or loans to refugees from Northern Ireland. Such recommendations have been made and acted upon.
§ Mr. HEALYCan the right hon. Gentleman say how many of these refugee cases from Northern Ireland have teen relieved, with the total amounts paid?
§ Mr. HENDERSONI am not in a position to state the number, but certain decisions have been given in this direction
§ Mr. HEALYCan the right hon. Gentleman say when he will be in a position to give me the definite information?
§ Mr. HENDERSONIf the hon. Member will put down a question asking for details, I will give him all the information I can