19 MAY 1917, Page 2

The Government, Mr. Lloyd George states, in proposing the establishment

of the Council recognize the profound sentiment in Ireland for unity. But though they are prepared to introduce a Bill on the above lines, they feel that it would be idle to introduce it unless it were assured of something like a Second Reading acceptance from both Irish Parties. The Prime Minister next ex- presses the hope that the party of which Mr. Redmond is the head would support proposals which give immediate self-government in Irelanclgto those who wish for it, and will at the same time create the means whereby a fmal-reconciliation between :the "twd.seetlins of the lush people can at any time be brought_ about- The letter concludes with an alternative suggestion that Irishmen 51# all creeds and-parties should meet together in a Convention for the purpose of drafting a Constitution for their country which would secure a just balance of all the opposing interests. The Government are ready, in default of the adoption of their proposals for Home Rule, to take the necessary steps for the assembling of such a Con- vention. An, answer to the letter is asked for in time to allow the Government to consider the matter before Monday.