THE NATIONAL REGISTER

Dominion, Volume 8, Issue 2512, 13 July 1915, Page 5

THE NATIONAL REGISTER

7, STATUS OF IRISHMEN. Br Telegraph—Press Association—Copyright ("Times" and Sydney "Sun" Services.) . _ ; , _ , London, July 11. •During tlie discussion in the House of, Commons on the National Registration Bill, a provision was inserted to ensure tho secrecy of tho register. Compilers violating secrecy are'to incur a penalty of three months' imprisonment and a fine of £20. An interesting discussion took place regarding Ireland's position.; Mr. Swift McNeil, and Sir J. B. Lonsdale objected to .the. piecemeal applications of the Bill, wliich did not invite Irishmen to work for the nation. Sir J. B. Lonsdale stated-that Ulstermen were! anxious for im opportunity to offer their services.' Mr., Birrell (Chief Secretary for Ire-, land)'replied that it was necessary-to. differentiate with: regard to Ireland, because of its peculiar social conditions. The males eligible for registration numbered 1,325,000. They were engaged^in agriculture, and any interference with them would seriously affect the national food supplies. . Sir Edward Carson (Attorney-General) stated that Irishmen desiring to register would be afforded an opportunity to do so. ' ■ ' ■ •The third reading was carried. (Rec. July 12, 11.10 p.m.) London, July 12. Mr. -Walter Long (President of the Local" Government Board has asked the local authorities to be in readiness to prepare tho national register, during the second week in August.