OATH ABOLITION BILL

Northern Advocate, 2 May 1932, Page 5

OATH ABOLITION BILL

SECOND READING PASSED MAJORITY OF SIX VOTES. DE VALERA DEPT ANT. (United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright.) (Received 9 a.m.) DUBLIN, April 30. In replying to the debate in the Dail on the Oath Abolition Bill, Mr do Valera said: “My word and our word is as good as that of the Dominions Secretary, Mr .1. H. Thomas. I am not afraid of negotiation with Britain, but. when we negotiate it. will bo about a united Ireland, and not before.

“No negotiation is needed about, this Oath Removal Bill. We propose to get the last letter of our political rights.’ ’ Referring to the equality of the nations under the British Commonwealth, Mr de Valera said: “Wo are going to put it to the test whether that is a deceptive phrase or ».as a solid substance behind it.” Eventually the bill was read a. second time by 77 votes tt» 71.

“HUMILIATING SHAM.”

NO HOSTILITY TO BRITAIN. (Received 10 a.m.) LONDON,- May 1. “Nothing is further from the truth than the suggestion that there is hostility to Britain behind the Oath Bill,” said Mr De Valera iu an interview.” We are simply ending a humiliating sham, hitherto an obstacle to the peace and ordered progress of ■the Free State. “We did not enter into negotiations with Britain, because the- matter concerns the rights and interests of the Free -State people alone. If the Senate rejects the bill I will at some stage appeal to the people against the Senate.” Asked if he wanted t-he Free State to stay iu the Commonwealth, ho replied that that matter was not at pre-. sent at issue.