§ SIR HERBERT MAXWELLasked the Civil Lord of the Admiralty, If he is aware that the white ensign has been hoisted over the premises of the National Liberal Union at Charing Cross; and, whether this has been done by permission of the Admiralty; and, if not, whether he will give directions to prevent the regulations being violated by this and other convivial institutions?
§ MR. CAMPBELL-BANNERMANPerhaps, Sir, I may be allowed to answer for my hon. Friend. Not having had occasion recently to pass the building occupied by the National Liberal Club, I was not aware of the fact stated in this Question. But if it is the case that the white ensign has been hoisted, I can only express, as a member of the Club, my regret that any decoration should be used which hurts the feelings of the hon. Baronet, This regret is, under Regula- 1876 tions, the only punishment which members of the Club may suffer, as the penalties provided by the Merchant Shipping Acts only apply to the improper use of flags afloat, and there is no restriction as to the flags which anyone may hoist on shore.
§ SIR HERBERT MAXWELLsaid, he might be showing his ignorance; but did not the Regulations of the Admiralty apply to seaport towns?
§ MR. CAMPBELL-BANNERMANsaid, he did not wish to add to the answer he had given, which correctly expressed the state of the law upon the subject. If the hon. Member had any further information he wished to obtain, perhaps he would be good enough to give Notice.