§ Mr. RAWLINSONasked the Chief Secretary what the effect of the appointment of Major-General Friend as resident magistrate for the counties of Antrim and Down was upon the powers of the existing magistrates in those counties; and who would have power to issue orders to the constabulary?
§ Mr. BIRRELLThe appointment of any military officer as an additional resident magistrate would in no way affect 1361W the power of the existing justices. The constabulary act under the orders of Government, conveyed through the Inspector-General and their officers.
§ Mr. FELLasked the Chief Secretary if he agreed to the appointment of an Army officer as a divisional magistrate for Antrim and Down; if it was to invest him with power for the control of the Royal Irish Constabulary; and why it was necessary to take this step when everything was perfectly quiet and orderly in the two counties named?
§ Mr. BIRRELLI would refer the hon. Member to the reply which the Prime Minister has just given to the hon. Member for Colchester.