HC Deb 26 January 1937 vol 319 cc733-4
15. Mr. Mander

asked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether any step has been taken, or will be taken, to request the Government of the Irish Free State to put into force the provisions of the Foreign Enlistment Act, 1870?

The Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs (Mr. Malcolm MacDonald)

The Free State Government were immediately informed of the action which His Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom were taking on this matter. The question of the action to be taken by the Irish Free State is one for the Free State Government, who have, of course, their own representative on the Non-Intervention Committee. Any statement which they may wish to make on the question will presumably be made to that committee.

Mr. Mander

Is it not very important that the units of the British Empire should act together in this matter, and cannot my right hon. Friend press the Irish Government to act on similar lines to the British Government?

Mr. MacDonald

I think that the importance of getting effective action in this matter is fully appreciated by both Governments.

Mr. Macquisten

What is the use of it being a Free State if there is not to be freedom of action?