To ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord-Lieutenant of Ireland whether he is aware that some years since a circular was issued by the Commissioners of National Education instructing their inspectors when in Dublin to call, if convenient, on the present resident commissioner at his office; and that several inspectors have since, in conformity with this circular, called to see the resident commissioner, and have been, without any reason assigned, refused an interview; and whether he will ascertain if the circular in question is still binding, so that inspectors may be spared the indignity of being told by the hall porters of Tyrone House that the resident commissioner declined to see them.

The circular to which the Question refers is still in force. I am informed that the resident commissioner receives inspectors who may call upon him in conformity with his wishes as communicated in the circular, unless he happens to be engaged on important business, at the time of the inspector's visit. The resident commissioner is not aware that any inspector has been refused an interview without reason assigned.