HC Deb 31 July 1930 vol 242 cc683-4
24. Mr. KINLEY

asked the Home Secretary whether the Irish political prisoners, Breen and Gavin, still in an English prison, are now receiving visitors; and, if not, for what reason are visitors not permitted?

Mr. CLYNES

These prisoners are allowed to receive visits under the prison rules on the same conditions as other convicts. During the last six months neither of them has in fact received a visit, but during that period no request for a visit has been received by the prison Governors. Two requests for special visits have been made to me that were refused because they did not come within the purposes for which visits can properly be allowed, and another request is under consideration.

Mr. KINLEY

In view of the fact that these two prisoners have for various reasons had no visits during six months, will the right hon. Gentleman afford facilities for Members of this House who are interested to visit them?

Mr. CLYNES

I will, of course, be happly to afford facilities for visits if the visits come within the Regulations.

Sir F. HALL

Does the right hon. Gentleman think that it is in the interests of justice that Members of this House—

HON. MEMBERS

Order!

Mr. KINLEY

May I request the Home Secretary to provide me with a copy of the Regulations?

Mr. CLYNES

Yes, I shall be glad to do so.