HC Deb 29 July 1910 vol 19 cc2650-1W
Mr. GUINEY

asked the Chief Secretary if he would state why District-Inspector Price, of Newmarket, was not in uniform on the night of 26th May last, the date of the Newmarket shooting; if it is according to regulations to have a district-inspector discharge revolver shots himself and order his men to do likewise whilst in civilian dress; and what explanation does the district-inspector give of his remaining at a tea-party after two respectable shopkeepers informed him that his presence was needed down the street, although it is admitted by the inspector-general that he was on duty on that day?

Mr. BIRREL

The inspector-general informs me that when this sudden emergency arose the district-inspector was not on duty with his men; and that he acted properly in at once attending to it without waiting to put on uniform. The district-inspector's guests had departed before the shopkeepers referred to called upon him.

Mr. GUINEY

asked the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland if he will state whether a sub-constable from Meelin station went to the police station at Newmarket on 26th May and informed the police that there was a serious assault taking place in the town; and if he will give a copy of the entries for that day as reported in the police journal or day book?

Mr. BIRRELL

I am informed that on the date in question a constable from Meelin was sent by the local police to report at the barrack that a disturbance was taking place in the town. A party of police turned out and restored order. The entries in the Barrack Diary are confidential, and I do not propose to furnish copies of them.

Mr. GUINEY

asked how many independent witnesses were interviewed by the county inspector during the inquiry into the conduct of the police on 9th June; and if any of the witnesses interviewed had previously acted as jurors at the inquest held to ascertain the cause of the death of Cornelius Regan at Newmarket on 26th May last.

Mr. BIRRELL

I am infomed that the county inspector interviewed two independent witnesses in connection with the occurrences referred to. Neither of them had previously acted as jurors at, the inquest.