§ MR. BIGGARasked the Secretary of State for War, Whether it is a fact that on Wednesday 7th instant, the band of the South Down Rifles played party tunes very offensive to Roman Catholics for upwards of two hours, in presence of the staff sergeants and near to the residence of the adjutant; and, whether he will give orders that it is not to be repeated?
THE MARQUESS OF HARTINGTONI am informed that the band of the battalion did not play any party tune on the 7th instant, but that a small drum and fife band among the recruits played in the afternoon inside the barracks for their own amusement, and, among other tunes, they played one which is stated to be a party tune. In the evening they played outside the barracks, but no party tune was played. The officer commanding the battalion states that he is certain of this, as he had strictly forbidden it, and an officer of the regiment was present during the whole time.
§ MR. BIGGARasked whether party tunes played inside the barracks could not be heard outside?
THE MARQUESS OF HARTINGTONI do not know how far it goes outside, but playing party tunes inside the barracks is against the regulations, and the officer informs me that they are strictly forbidden.