IRISH HOME RULE.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume XLVII, Issue 8055, 23 February 1906, Page 3

IRISH HOME RULE.

IMPORTANT DEBATE IX THE COMMONS. Received 22. 11.30 p.m. Loxhon, February 22. In the House of Commons, Colonel Saunderson (l\) member for Armagh North, moved an amendment to the Address, representing that many in Ireland viewed with alarm the statement that the Ministry was considering proposals to effect changes in the system of Government, believing that it. would endanger the liberty and property of the Loyalists minority and impair the integrity of the United Kingdom. The Right Hon. Jas. Bryce, Secretary of Stale for Ireland, refused to reply to unreasonable demands for information while the Government's policy was still being matured. Every one in Ireland believed the changes were needed in the system of Government. Considering the tranquility prevailing, Parliament was justified in further associating the people with Government. A general spirit of conciliation prevailed, even in Ulster, and the time was propitious for passing measures leadiug up to selfgovernment.

Mr Long contended that the Government ought to make it clear if they were beginning a policy making Home Rule by instalments. Mr John Dillon congratulated Mr B.'ycc on his great honest speech, implying a willingness to give the Irish full aud free control of their own affairs. The Nationalises would give the Government lime to develop their plans.

| Mr Chamberlain said Mr Dillon's congratulations to Mr Bryce reminded him of a boa constrictor, halving its prey before devouring it. ft was evi. dent the Ministry was a Home Kulc Government, however much it tried at present to conceal its true character.