HC Deb 01 December 1955 vol 546 cc2506-7
45. Mr. Allaun

asked the Prime Minister whether he will repeal the Government of Ireland Act, 1920.

The Prime Minister (Sir Anthony Eden)

No, Sir.

Mr. Allaun

Is the Prime Minister aware that the Northern Ireland Trades Disputes Act, 1927, with all its restrictions on the trade unions, is still unrepealed, and that the Irish T.U.C. and the British unions affiliated are concerned—

Mr. Speaker

Order. The hon. Member is, I think, now asking about a subject within the purview of the Northern Ireland Parliament. That is out of order in this House.

Mr. Allaun

I was going to ask the Prime Minister whether, in view of the benefits that Northern Ireland receives from English social and labour legislation, he would make representations.

The Prime Minister

I have no power whatever to do that. This is a question, as Mr. Speaker has said, within the jurisdiction of the Northern Ireland Parliament. I am aware of the circumstances to which the hon. Member referred, and I am aware also of the powers of the Northern Ireland Parliament.

Mr. Stokes

Is the Prime Minister aware that some of us think that the sooner partition is done away with, the better?

The Prime Minister

We may also have memories that Ulster saved us in the war.

Mr. Stokes rose

—

Mr. Speaker

Order. Question No. 46.

Mr. Stokes

On a point of order. After that most insulting remark by the Prime Minister, am I not entitled to ask another supplementary question?

Mr. Speaker

I did not hear any insult.

Mr. Stokes

Is it not within your recollection, Mr. Speaker, that more Southern Ireland people than Northern Ireland people fought for this country?

Mr. Speaker

That may well be, but that is getting a little far from the original Question.