The. Prime Minister, in the House on Friday, December 10th,
made a statement on Irish policy. The Government believed that most Irish people wanted peace and a fair settlement. They welcomed the resolution of the Galway County Council condemning the Simi Fein. murders and suggesting that Sinn- Fein delegates should meet the Government, if the so-called Sinn Fein " Parliament " were allowed to assemble. The Government could not recognize this " Dail Eireann," but would give safe conducts to the Sinn Fein members, except those who were guilty of murder and other crimes. At the same time, the Government were resolved to suppress the terrorists, who not only attacked the police and troops but also molested private persons, such as the Bishop of Killaloe. These bandits wore civilian clothes or disguised themselves in British uniforms. Martial law would be proclaimed in the worst areas. All arms and uniforms must be surrendered by a given date, either to the authorities or to parish priests.- After that date persons taken with arms -or found wearing British uniforms, and those, who harboured them, would be treated as rebels and, after conviction by a court-martial, would be liable to the death penalty.
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