asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department when he proposes to make a statement on the transfer of the return of the remains of Sir Roger Casement and the documents that belong to him in Ireland.

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he has now completed his consideration of the request of the Irish Government to have the body of Sir Roger Casement returned to Ireland; and whether he will make a statement before the end of this year.

I hope to be able to make a statement shortly.

Can the Home Secretary give me the assurance that he will make this statement before next Easter, the anniversary of the Easter Rising?

I should be most astonished if I had not made it a considerable time before next Easter.

Does not my right hon. And learned Friend realise that it is quite inconsistent with British history, prestige and tradition to retain these remains for so long a period, and will he expedite their return to the proper sources?

I cannot add to what I have said. I assure the House that I realise the strength of feeling on this matter, and I will make my statement as soon as I can after going into the relevant circumstances.