THE IRISH QUESTION.

Taranaki Daily News, 29 June 1916, Page 5

THE IRISH QUESTION.

| RESIGNATION OF LORD SELBORNE. CABINET ACTION DISCLOSED. By C»bl» —Press Association —Copyright Received June 28. 5.5 p.m. London, June 27. Lord Selbourne, in a personal explanation, stated that the original basis of Mr. Lloyd George's inquiry was that Home Rule should not operate until the restoration ot peace. Lord Rel bourne was not prepared to advise His Majesty that Homo Rule could wisely and safely be brought, in during the war. He learned during the Whitsun recess that, the basis had been changed and that Cabinet was contemplating that the Home Rule Bill should operate during the war. He immediately placed his resignation in Mr. Asquitlr's hands. Tie did not consider that the moment had yet arrived to debate these great matters. He would be content to briefly review the developments. When war broke out the main principle wherefore the Unionists contended for thirty vears had been decided against them, but the Ulster question was not decided. The Unionists agreed to accept the accomplished fact and not to attempt during the war to revive thi-. controversy. Xlr. Asquith returned from his visit to Ireland impressed with the general desire for a settlement, and so entrusted Mr. Lloyd George to enquire, and gather best opinions and suggestions, and report to Cabinet, who would decide. Lord Selborne, although regarding the Home Rule policy as dangerou!., thought the Homo Rule Act was workable, but always labored for Ulster's exclusion, and considered tlie welfare of the United Kingdom and the Umpire demanded that Home Rule should be given a fair trial He was prepared to agree to an immediate arrangement ns to Ulster's exclusion, provided neither the principal nor the amending Act would operate until peace was secured. Ireland was gravely disturbed and constitutional change of such a magnitude in war time e.s contemplated was more perilous than any other course. tn the House of Lords. Lord Crewe expressed the Government's regret at Lord Sdbourne's resignation He had filled his office with credit and distinction, and agred that it was not a time to debate the Irish question. Lord Salisbury said that there were many mysteries surrounding the question which remained for debate. It was advisable that the earliest opportunity be given at the moment. He appealed to Lord Crewe for a statement to-morrow. Lord Crewe was not prepared to promise this. SERIOUS DIFFICULTIES FURTHER CABINET RESIGNATIONS. Received June 2S. U p.m. London, June 28. The Irish situation continues to be difficult. It is understood that Mr Long lias resigned and that Lord Curzon is a possible resignation. The meeting of the Unionists has been postponed. Mr. Asquith and Mr. Lloyd George received a Unionist deputation from the west and south of Ireland and the city of Dublin, representing four hundred thousand Loyalists, protesting against the proposed'settlement. The Times and Daily Mail demand that, the Unionists accept Mr. Lloyd George's settlement.