HC Deb 19 July 1973 vol 860 c734
Mr. A. W. Stallard (St. Pancras, North)

I beg to ask leave to move the Adjournment of the House under Standing Order No. 9 for the purpose of discussing a specific and important matter that should have urgent consideration, namely, The rapidly deteriorating conditions of two prisoners, Mr. Michael Farrell and Mr. Tony Canavan, currently on hunger strike in Crumlin Road Gaol, Belfast. It is specific because these two men are well-known politicγal activists and they were convicted under a statute which was introduced to deal specifically with offences of a political nature. The men are being kept in solitary confinement for 23 hours a day in the gaol and are being denied political status.

It is urgent because of the deteriorating physical condition of both the men and the effects that this is having on their wives and families. It is important because of the standing of these two men in their own communities. It could have grave and serious effects on the present very delicate political and security situation in Northern Ireland.

In the absence of any satisfactory explanation why political status cannot be granted to these two prisoners, in view of the replies to Questions today and the fact that the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland appears to have given credence to the widespread belief in Belfast that the sentences imposed on these men were the maximum possible sentences which would not grant political status, it would appear again to the people of Northern Ireland that only those who throw bombs or use guns can qualify for sentences heavy enough to justify or merit political status.

Mr. Speaker

The hon. Gentleman was kind enough to give me notice of his intention. I have considered carefully what he said. I has also considered the exchanges at Question Time. I am forbidden to give my reasons for my decision but it must occur to anybody that one of the factors I would take into account is the other opportunities to raise the matter which are immediately available to the hon. Gentleman. I am afraid that I cannot grant his request.