HC Deb 12 May 1893 vol 12 cc791-2
MR. GRIFFITH-BOSCAWEN (Kent, Tunbridge)

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for the Homo Department whether his attention has been called to a paragraph in The Daily News of 6th May, reporting a serious and riotous attack at Penbryn, Cardiganshire, upon bailiffs engaged in the collection of tithe rent-charge; and what steps are being taken to bring the rioters to punishment, and to prevent the repetition of such occurrences?

MR. S. T. EVANS (Glamorgan, Mid)

Is it not a fact that proceedings are still pending in relation to this matter?

MR. BURNIE (Swansea)

Will the right hon. Gentleman, when making inquiries into this matter, also inquire into the arbitrary manner in which the clerical tithe-owners are collecting their tithes?

MR. E. H. HOBHOUSE (Somerset, E.)

also put a question, which was inaudible in the Gallery.

MR. ASQUITH

Yes. Two men have been arrested and brought before the Magistrates and remanded until tomorrow. Police protection will be given to the bailiff whenever he requires it, and I have every reason to hope that it will prove adequate to prevent the recurrence of such an event. As to the supplementary question, I have no power to make the inquiries suggested, as they do not relate to matters with which I can interfere.