On Tuesday, when the Free State Bill was considered in
Committee, Lord Peel made it clear that the Government could not accept any amendments. Lord Lansdowne, speaking with his usual wisdom, which is invaluable in debate, said that,. though the House might not insist on its amendments it had a right to put its objections on record. The question as to when the month within which Ulster had the opportunity of contracting out should begin was settled. Lord Peel read a letter in which Mr. Griffith agreed that the month should run from the passing of the Act which sanctioned the Free State Constitution, so that Ulster might have an opportunity of considering that Constitution before coming to a decision: This interpretation will be embodied in the Bill.