§ Mr. HUNTasked the Chief Secretary whether he has ascertained the causes of the rioting and disturbance which have lately taken place at Belfast; and whether the Government proposes to increase the forces stationed there?
§ Mr. BIRRELLThe recent disturbances in Belfast are attributable to the state of feeling which always exists in the North of Ireland at this season of the year, accentuated by the Opposition to the Government of Ireland Bill. The question of increasing the force necessary for the normal policing of the city has been for some time under consideration, but no decision has yet been arrived at.