§ MR. THORNTON (Clapham)I beg to ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he has seen the account of a so-called glove fight at the Boling-broke Hall, half a mile from Clapham Junction, on Friday night last, the 4th of May, and if he is aware that, notwithstanding the drafting of mounted police into the neighbourhood, a scene occurred in the Northcote Road which greatly scandalised the inhabitants; and if he will take measures to render such gatherings illegal?
§ MR. ASQUITHThere were boxing competitions at this hall on the night in question, and a certain amount of excitement as to the result of one of the contests was manifested by a large number of persons congregated outside the Hall. This excitement, I am informed, continued for some little time after the result was known, and four mounted men assisted the foot police in keeping order. No assaults were reported, but two men were charged with larceny from the person.
§ MR. THORNTONThe right hon. Gentleman says there have been no assaults; but is he aware that the orgies were kept up till 2 o'clock in the morning, and that tradesmen were afraid to open their shops?
§ MR. ASQUITHNo, Sir.
§ MR. THORNTONI shall take an early opportunity of calling attention to this matter.