HC Deb 10 April 1928 vol 162 cc1054-6
34. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

asked the Home Secretary whether any of the persons deported to Ireland under the Restoration of Order in Ireland Act have been released; whether any have been brought to trial; and how many of these persons have been allowed to appeal against their deportation?

The SECRETARY of STATE for the HOME DEPARTMENT (Mr. Bridge-man)

The answer to the first part of the question is one; to the second, none. It is open to them all to make representations for the consideration of the Advisory Committee, but, so far, only three have done so.

Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHY

May I ask who the lucky person was, and why he was released?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

I think I had bettor not mention the name in public, but I do not mind telling the hon. and gallant Member. As there is a good deal of prejudice in certain quarters, I think it would be better not to mention names.

Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHY

Can the right hon. Gentleman say why he was released? Was it because a mistake had been made?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

He was released partly on the ground of health and partly because he had given an undertaking not to engage in any further hostilities against the Irish Free State Government.

37. Mr. SHORT

asked the Home Secretary how many times the Advisory Committee, appointed under the Restoration of Order in Ireland Act, have met: how many deportees have been before the Committee; and, if any, with what result?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

The Committee have not yet met, as it is only within the past week that any representations for their consideration have been received. I am in communication with the Committee with a view to the early consideration of these representations.

Mr. SHORT

Can the right hon. Gentleman say how many were deported who have made application to go before the Committee?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

I have just said, in answer to another question, that there were three. I believe that some others made applications, and then withdrew them.

Sir KINGSLEY WOOD

What is the reason for the delay in the meeting of the Committee?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

There is no delay. The only reason for their not meeting is that there were no cases for them to deal with.

Captain BERKELEY

With regard to the remainder of these prisoners, is it contemplated that they should remain in a state of indefinite confinement?

Mr. SPEAKER

That does not now arise.