§ 45. Sir P. Hannonasked the Prime Minister if he has considered the appeal signed by Members of both Houses of Parliament, distinguished officers in the Fighting Services and others prominent in public life, on behalf of Irishmen who fought in the war or who were engaged in war work in Great Britain, for relief from the hardship which will be imposed on such persons in the event of their return to Eire through the sacrifice of unemployment benefits to which they are entitled on demobilisation or termination of service; and what action he proposes to take as a measure of justice in the circumstances.
§ The Prime Minister (Mr. Attlee)This matter is still under consideration but it is hoped to reach a decision at a fairly early date.
§ Sir P. HannonWill the right hon. Gentleman take into consideration the immense services rendered by these Irishmen in the war and in the production of munitions in this country, and take steps 14 to protect them from the disability under which they are labouring in returning to Eire?
§ The Prime MinisterYes, Sir, I will do my best. The hon. Member will realise that we have to consult the Government of Northern Ireland, the Dominions and the Government of Eire, and it takes a little time to get it all fixed up; but I can assure the hon. Member that we are pursuing this question and we intend to reach a settlement as soon as we can, although I am afraid it will take some time.
§ Mr. GallacherIs this not a good opportunity for discussing this matter and other important matters with the Leader of the Irish Government?
§ Mr. SpeakerThat is another question.