HC Deb 08 November 1920 vol 134 cc854-5W
Mr. PENNEFATHER

asked the Secretary of State for War how long a period of time elapses before the War Office receives full particulars of the circumstances in which soldiers in Ireland are killed or wounded while carrying out their duties?

Mr. CHURCHILL

A telegram is received daily from Ireland containing a brief report of encounters and ambushes, giving the locality and, if known, the number of soldiers killed and wounded. The necessary notification to the next-of-kin is made direct by the local military authorities. Full particulars of the circumstances of every encounter are not ordinarily reported to the War Office.

Mr. PENNEFATHER

asked the Secretary of State for War how many times since 30th June last soldiers on military duty in Ireland in motor cars or lorries have been attacked by men in ambush; how many soldiers have in consequence been killed; how many soldiers wounded; how many soldiers captured or disarmed; and how many rifles and how much ammunition Secured by the attackers?

Mr. CHURCHILL

I am in communication with the General Officer Command- ing-in-Chief in Ireland regarding this question, and should be glad if the hon. Member would repeat his question in a day or two.