January 17 1924
Sir James Craig attended a luncheon given to officers of the Constabulary by Sir Basil Brooke at Colebrooke, Co Fermanagh. Replying to the toast of his health, he referred to the difficulties which “Ulster” had confronted and overcome, and said he looked forward to the future with the same confidence as he had always done. They would be afraid of no-one or of any combination of circumstances which might arise against them. As far as the future was concerned, until he was absolutely confident that all danger had gone by, the Special Constabulary would not be disbanded – never!
There might be very grave dangers ahead, he added: there were sure to be; but those dangers would be overcome. Nothing under Heaven would ever tempt him to relax the vigilance necessary to hold “Ulster”, however it might be. They were mixed in Fermanagh, in some parts less mixed than in others. It was impossible for him not to pay a tribute to those who differed from them as to the way they were settling down under their new Parliament. Wherever he went he observed a more friendly feeling between the two parties. After all, they would have to live for many years together, and he hoped that both sides would meet in the spirit of friendship and friendliness, and that they would live together to the credit of their community. In the South, where matters may be good or bad, it would still be the earnest wish of all Ulstermen, and himself in particular, that the South would have the same happiness and prosperity as by the blessing of God had settled upon them.
Despite claiming relations between the two main communities had improved, James Craig still believed it was necessary for the Specials to continue in existence, a body primarily used to safeguard Protestant and unionist interests.
Case of Interned MP Raised at Westminster
At Westminster yesterday, the Speaker said he had considered all the points submitted on the previous day by the member for Penistone (Mr William Pringle), the member for Spen Valley (Sir John Simon) and other members with regard to the internment of Mr Cahir Healy.
The point which he had to decide fortunately was a much narrower one than might be thought from the submission made. It was only this – is there a prima facie case of privilege arising which calls for the setting aside of the business of the day that it may be dealt with immediately? On that point his reply must be in the negative. It remained open to the hon and learned member to table a motion and bring it before the House at the proper time.