IRISH AFFAIRS.

Taihape Daily Times, Issue 220, 19 May 1917, Page 5

IRISH AFFAIRS.

HOME RULE PROBLEM

IRISH AND ULSTER REPLIES,

LONDON, May 17

Mr. Redmond, in his reply to Mr. Lloyd George’s proposals, says: There is no need to re-state the grounds on which the Irish Party decided not to negotiate with the Government. I note what you say as to the impossibility of taking action which will revive a violent political controversy during the crisis of the war and the Government’s necessity to propose a settlement substantially acceptable to both sides. I cannot accept this proposition, which has not been applied to some other matters since the outbreak of the war. My colleagues have considered the two alternatives, and they are of opinion that the first will find no support in Ireland. They are irreconcilable and opposed to the scheme. Any measures based thereon will meet with their vigorous opposition. The proposed convention has much to recommend it, and I trust it may be found possible of realisation. My colleagues will place no obstacle in the way. They arc prepared to earnestly recommend it to their countrymen on condition that a convention representative of Irishmen of all creeds, interests and parties, is summoned without delay. If this is done I can assure you that my colleagues and myself will spare no effort to realise the high and blessed ideal. Sir John Lonsdale, replying on behalf of the Ulstentes, states: We are opposed as strongly as ever to enter a Home Rule policy, but are willing to consider it in the exigencies of the present situation. My colleagues and myself have not power to accept, but we submit the proposal to the Ulster Unionist Council with a recommendation that a decision should be reached which shall promote peace and security of the United Kingdom.