HC Deb 28 March 1889 vol 334 cc1030-1
DR. TANNER

asked the Secretary of State for War if it was a fact that, on the occasion of the recent Court martial, held in Cork, on soldiers of the 4th Hussars and Welsh Regiments, the Press were refused admission to the Court; and, whether, under similar circumstances, it had been the rule to exclude the Press?

*MR. E. STANHOPE

The General Officer commanding states, in a telegram, that the Press was not refused.

DR. TANNER

Does that reply include the Cork Daily Herald and the Cork Examiner, or only the Conservative newspapers?

*MR. E. STANHOPE

I imagine that the Cork Herald is a newspaper, and therefore represents the Press.

MR. W. REDMOND

As there is a direct contradiction, will the right hon. Gentleman cause further inquiry to be made?

MR. SEXTON

What is the rule as to the admission or exclusion of the Press?

*MR. E. STANHOPE

I believe there is no general rule. The Press are usually admitted.

MR. SEXTON

Does the officer in command determine the matter?

*MR. E. STANHOPE

I imagine that the Court Martial itself would settle the matter; but I should like to have notice of the question.