HC Deb 31 July 1941 vol 373 cc1510-2
14. Dr. Little

asked the Home Secretary whether he is now in a position to assure the House that plans have been devised, and are being put into execution, whereby the activities of enemy spies and agents in Eire are being countered and their designs to impede the war effort frustrated?

39. Sir William Davison

asked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that the fullest information of events in Great Britain is still being despatched to Germany from the German Legation in Dublin; that there is a perfunctory checking of identity cards of persons going into Eire from Northern Ireland; whether the position has now been reviewed; what improvements have been made; and what further steps are being taken to stop this menace to the safety of Britain and to the British war effort?

Mr. H. Morrison

If my hon. Friends are assuming that no steps have been taken to secure this object, that is an entire misapprehension. Appropriate steps have been and are being taken.

Dr. Little

Is my right hon. Friend aware that this matter requires haste, and that a month has passed and practically nothing has been done? Is he aware that it is reported that there is a possibility of another pro-Nazi Legation being established there in the near future?

Mr. Morrison

It really is impossible to discuss the details of this matter across the Floor of the House. It would be most unwise. I can only assure my hon. Friend and the House that every possioie step is being taken.

Sir W. Davison

Is my right hon. Friend aware that I put my Question down to the Prime Minister, knowing that it was much too wide a matter for the Home Secretary? Can he answer the first and last parts of my Question, as to the safety of this country being imperilled by Germany being in direct touch with troop movements both in Northern Ireland and in this country?

Mr. Morrison

I am aware of all that is happening. As to the first two parts or my hon. Friend's Question, I doubt whether they are justified by the facts. As to the other point, the Prime Minister thought, and I thought, that the matter was one for the Home Office.

Sir W. Davison

Will my hon. Friend see, at any rate, to the tightening-up on regulations relating to the checking of identity cards of persons coming into Northern Ireland?