HC Deb 20 July 1932 vol 156 cc2260-1
53. Colonel GRETTON

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether his attention has been called to a report from West Donegal, stating that parties of irregulars from Glenveagh Castle in motor cars visited a number of farmhouses in the Churchill and Termon districts and conscripted about 11 young women, whom they brought with them to the castle to act as domestic servants for those who are in occupation there; that the mother of one of the girls, who vigorously protested against the taking away of her daughter, was placed in a motor car and driven away for a few miles, after which she was put out on the roadside, and the car resumed its journey to the castle; and whether, in view of recent outrages on women in Ireland, any steps have been taken, or will be taken, to secure the release of these young women?

Mr. CHURCHILL

My attention has been drawn to a newspaper report of this outrage, but I am unable to vouch for its accuracy. In any case, the matter would appear to be one for the Provisional Government to deal with, and I am glad to observe that, according to the latest reports, their troops have now compelled the evacuation of Glenveagh Castle, and are steadily extending their control over County Donegal.

Lieut.-Colonel DALRYMPLE WHITE

Will not the right hon. Gentleman take further steps in this case, in view of the fact that the outrages occurred in the Churchill district?

Mr. CHURCHILL

That is a joke, I suppose.

Colonel GRETTON

Has the right hon. Gentleman made no inquiry and taken no steps to secure the arrest of these people and the release of those who have been kidnapped?

Mr. CHURCHILL

This happened in one of the 26 counties, and, if Irish girls are kidnapped and carried off under such atrocious conditions by violent persons, in my opinion it is for the Irish men to see that they are released; and that is what is being done.

Colonel ASHLEY

Is the right hon. Gentleman now quite satisfied with his policy?

Mr. CHURCHILL

I am increasingly satisfied.

Colonel GRETTON

Does not the right hon. Gentleman consider it to be his duty to make inquiries?

Mr. CHURCHILL

I consider that this is an exceptional incident, which should be left to the Irish people to deal with.