In the House of Commons on Monday Mr. Asquith made
an important statement on the proposed Irish settlement. The Homo Rule Act, he said, is to be brought into operation as soon as possible after Parliamentary sanction has been given to the exclusion cf the six counties and the three Parliamentary boroughs of Belfast, Londonderry, and Newry. The Irish House of Commons is to consist of the existing representatives of the Irish constituencies in the Imperial Parliament,. The Appeal Court in Dublin is to consist of Judges appointed by the Imperial Executive The Irish Execu- tive will not be able to encroach in any way on the undivided power and responsibility of the Imperial authority in all that pertains to the successful prosecution of the war, especially with reference to the Defence of the Realm Acts and other emergency legislation. The amended Act is to remain in force during the war and for twelve months thereafter. If Parliament has not by that time made further provision for the government of Ireland, the period is to be extended by Order in Council_
