In a series of three consecutive Cabinet meetings, the government convened to deliberate on matters deemed urgent and of national importance. The nature of the discussions has led to speculation surrounding the Home Rule policy, particularly its implications for Ireland and the potential for civil unrest.
The third instalment of the Cabinet Council, held yesterday, follows two preceding meetings held on consecutive days. The frequency of these gatherings has raised eyebrows, prompting public interest in the details of the government’s deliberations. While the official legislative agenda for the upcoming session may not inherently require such urgency, it appears that the looming prospect of civil unrest in Ireland, linked to the Home Rule policy, is a primary concern.
The revelation that Prime Minister Asquith met with the King on the second day of the Cabinet Council adds an intriguing dimension to the discussions. Though the details of their conversation remain undisclosed, it may provide context to the gravity of the matters under consideration.
The public, perceiving the extended deliberations and heightened attention to Home Rule, is increasingly inclined to associate the meetings with the escalating tension surrounding the policy. It is evident that the potential for approaching civil unrest in Ireland, sparked by the government’s Home Rule stance, is a central focus of these discussions.
Lord Lorebarrt’s recent letter has shed light on divisions within the Liberal Party regarding the Home Rule policy. A significant faction within the party is reportedly advocating for the withdrawal of the policy, citing the possibility of invoking the Parliament Act. However, the Act itself poses a challenge as it restricts the ability of party members to override the sentiments of their constituents.
The Cabinet finds itself in a state of perplexity, given the intricacies of navigating the delicate balance between party dynamics and national interests. The influence of Mr Redmond, particularly in his stronghold of Limerick, has been a factor that the Cabinet seems unable to shake off. His veto on proposals related to Ulster and insistence on delaying the General Election until after Home Rule becomes law have compounded the challenges faced by the government.
The principal organs of the English Press have highlighted the internal strife within the Liberal Party, with a considerable section advocating for a reconsideration of the Home Rule policy. However, Mr Redmond remains resolute in his demands, asserting that the bill must not only become law but also see the establishment of the Irish Parliament before any electoral processes take place.
The current state of affairs has compelled the Cabinet to reassess its position and explore alternative avenues. Fresh appeals have been made to Unionists in Ulster to propose alternative policies that the government can consider, signalling a nuanced approach to navigating the complexities of the Home Rule debate.
However, this manoeuvring has not gone unnoticed, with critics describing it as an attempt by the Cabinet to shift responsibility for the potential consequences of their policies onto other shoulders. The Unionists in Ulster, particularly those demanding the maintenance of the Union, have made it clear that no middle ground is acceptable to them.
The Cabinet’s attempt to find a compromise between Home Rule and the Union has faced challenges, especially given the uncompromising stance of Ulster. The implications of Home Rule extend beyond Ulster, affecting Unionists in other parts of Ireland who may face increased vulnerability under Nationalist rule.
As the government grapples with the intricacies of the Home Rule policy, public interest remains heightened, with citizens eagerly awaiting the outcome of these deliberations. The potential for civil unrest in Ireland looms large, making the government’s decisions in the coming months critical to the stability of the nation.
Dublin Daily Express – Friday 17 October 1913
