HC Deb 29 June 1920 vol 131 c274W
Sir W. DAVISON

asked the Attorney-General for Iriland whether an armed guard of six soldiers in the charge of a corporal while marching through the streets of Ennis were seized by a number of men and robbed of their rifles, bayonets, ammunition, and helmets; whether the soldiers made any resistance; what instructions are given to soldiers as to their course of action under such circumstances; and whether a court-martial has been ordered in the matter?

Mr. CHURCHILL

I have been asked to answer this question. I am not aware of the facts of this case, but a report is being obtained from Ireland. As I stated in reply to the Noble Lord the Member for Horsham and Worthing (Major Earl Winterton) on the 8th June, soldiers are empowered in such circumstances to open fire.