THE PRIME MINISTER'S PLEDGES. H ERE are the Pledges made to
the British People by Mr. Lloyd George and his colleagues in regard to Conscription for Ireland on April 9th, 1918
We propose to extend the Military Service Act to Ireland under the same conditions as in Great Britain. As there is no machinery in existence, as no register has yet been completed In Ireland, it may take some weeks before actual enrolment begins. But there must be no delay. As soon as arrangements are complete the Government will by Order in Council put the Act into immediate opzration. Meanwhile we intend to invite Parliament to pass a measure for the self-government of Ireland. Let there be no misapprehension. Both questions will not hang together. Each must be taken on its merits."
Later in the same debate Mr. Boner Law said :— " It is a great mistake to suppose that the Government have put compulsion for Ireland into the Bill as a pious opinion. They intend to carry it. They believe that it will make a difference of military strength, and that it is their duty to face the con- sequences, whatever they may be. I pledge the Government not to go back, and declare that if the people think we are making a 'mistake we will give loyal support to any other Government which wishes to carry on the war."
In the face of these Pledges, who will dare to say that we are making an unpatriotic attack on Mr. Lloyd George in demanding the increase of Man-Power here promised, and acknowledged to be available ?
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