MR. SULLIVANasked the Secretary of State for War, If it is the fact that unless in the case of a few strangers located in a particular gallery, the use of a pencil and paper is rigidly forbidden to strangers present at our debates; and, if, with a view to remove any distinction between different classes of strangers present at our debates, Her Majesty's Government intend to propose that any stranger, wherever he may sit may take notes, so long as he conducts himself in all other respects with propriety, and in no way interferes with good order or with the convenience of other persons?
MR. GATHORNE HARDYIt may seem strange that the hon. Member should address his Question to the Secretary for War; but I am bound to admit that he had good reasons for so doing; for in the statement I made the other day I was under the impression that any one could take notes. I am informed, however, that from time immemorial to the present day that has been forbidden, and that for reasons which make me think it undesirable to interfere with the Rule.