DISCUSSION IN THE HOUSE OF LORDS

Evening Post, Volume XCVII, Issue 130, 4 June 1919, Page 7

DISCUSSION IN THE HOUSE OF LORDS

MATTER TO BE TAKEN UP WHEN „ PEACE IS SIGNED.

(UNITED PRESS ASSOCIATION.—COPIRIGHT.) (AUSTRALIAN-NEW ZEALAND CABLE ASSOCIATION.) LONDON, 22nd May (delayed). Speaking in the House of Lords, Viscount Midleton asked whether the Government had facilitated the visit of the Irish-American delegation. He declared that whenever London interfered in Irish affairs the result was misfortune. Now Paris had interfered in an intolerable manner. It was inconceivable that the nation which had fought the greatest civil war in history was now advocating a policy for Ireland which, although called self-determination, meant civil war. , - Lord Birkenhead, replying, said that three successive Governments had failed to solve the Irish problem. It was easy to understand the reasons why the delegates were allowed to go to Ireland to see things for themselves. It was hoped that the. war would result in a better understanding between the Anglo-Am-erican peoples. The activity of the Irish-Americans was one of the greatest obstacles. It was not anticipated that the delegation would make a series' of treasonable speeches. Lord Birkenhead added that Mr. Lloyd George had intended subsequently to receive the delegation and make a considered speech to the world, through them, explaining the difficulties of the situation. If a mistake had been made Mr. , Lloyd George would not be harshly judged, because he was grappling with the gravest and most complexproblem relating to the peace of tjie world. As soon as' peace was signed, the reconstituted British Government would consider the application of Home Rule. In the meantime, the majority of the Irish were in open rebellion. Murder was common, and was not, discouraged by the Sinn Feiners. Therefore, the only policy iv the meantime must be the protection of life with whatever force was necessary.