HC Deb 02 April 1889 vol 334 cc1397-8
MR. THOMAS ELLIS (Merionethshire)

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether any application had been made for the use of the military for the collection of tithes in Cardiganshire and Pembrokeshire; and, if so, whether the application would be granted?

MR. MATTHEWS

I was informed by the War Office on the 23rd of March that troops in aid of the civil power had been demanded by the magistrates at Cardigan. Troops were accordingly held in readiness, but on the 25th of March the Chief Constable reported that troops were not now required, I am not aware that the Pembrokeshire magistrates have made any application for military aid. The law enables the magistrates, if they believe the civil force is inadequate to keep the peace, to apply directly to the military authorities for aid. The application does not usually come to me, nor does it rest with me to refuse or grant it.

MR. T. ELLIS

Will the right hon. Gentleman use his influence to prevent the troops from being employed until the recommendation of the Chief Constable of Cardiganshire has been acted upon?

MR. MATTHEWS

I have done all that I properly can do in the direction indicated. The local magistrates are responsible for the maintenance of the public peace; they are best acquainted with the facts in detail; and it would be most improper in me to interfere with their discretion.

MR. A. WILLIAMS (Glamorganshire, S.)

With whom does the responsibility of granting the assistance of the forces of the Crown rest? Is it with the War Office?

MR. MATTHEWS

I apprehend that the War Office ought not to decline the application of the magistrates. The magistrates are responsible for the preservation of the public peace, and they are entitled to call upon all citizens to assist them. If the War Office are applied to they ought not to refuse.

MR. A. WILLIAMS

If they apply to the War Office would the War Office assist them without inquiry?

MR. MATTHEWS

Yes; the magistrates are responsible for the preservation of peace.

MR. A. WILLIAMS

Have they the sole responsibility?

MR. MATTHEWS

I have given my answer.