§ Sir J. BUTCHERasked the Prime Minister whether he will explain exactly what the position of the Judges, the members of the Royal Irish Constabulary, and other officials, will be under Article 10 of the Articles of Agreement?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINClause 10 of the Articles of Agreement defines the obligations of the Irish Free State in regard to the compensation of existing police and civil officials who may retire or be discharged in consequence of the change of Government. The police and officials concerned are assured of treatment not less favourable than that provided in the Government of Ireland Act, and His Majesty's Government will be the guarantor of their pensions. The detailed arrangements to be made in reference to the various classes of officials have necessarily been deferred for consideration until after the acceptance of the Articles of Agreement in Ireland. The case of Judges in particular presents special features which it is recognised require careful examination.