HC Deb 17 June 1895 vol 34 cc1266-7
SIR JOHN KENNAWAY (Devon, Honiton)

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War whether the full band of the Coldstream Guards will play at the Elevation of the Host at the celebration of Low Mass, 29th June, on the occasion of laying the foundation stone of the new Roman Catholic Cathedral; and if so, whether such performance is usual and has the sanction of the authorities?

MR. W. REDMOND (Clare, E.)

Before the right hon. Gentleman answers the question may I ask whether the Cold-stream Guards and other regiments are not supported by the taxes of Roman Catholics as well as Protestants?

*MR. CAMPBELL-BANNERMAN

I believe Roman Catholics pay taxes as well as Protestants. In answer to my hon. Friend opposite, I have to say that in ordinary circumstances no impediment is placed in the way of a regimental band performing on occasion of a public ceremony of a neutral character; but as some political construction, or construction connected with ecclesiastical polemics, might be put upon the participation of a band in the ceremony referred to, and a meaning given to it which would not be intended, it has been decided not to allow the band to be present.

MR. T. W. LEGH

Arising out of that question, may I ask whether it is not a fact that British military bands frequently play during the celebration of Mussulman religious ceremonies in Egypt?

*MR. CAMPBELL-BANNERMAN

I do not know that in this country it is usual to do so. Military bands may play upon various occasions, but the general principle to be followed is that they should not take part in a ceremony as if they themselves were directly connected with it. The particular reason of the authority being refused on this occasion was, as I have stated, the fact that it was contemplated that they should attend a ceremony which had already been twisted into a polemical act.

MR. E. HENEAGE (Great Grimsby)

By whose order are the bands not to play? Is not a regimental band under the orders of the colonel of the regiment, and subcribed to by Catholic as well as Protestant officers?

*MR. CAMPBELL-BANNERMAN

Certainly; the very same principle would apply to a Protestant ceremony as to a Catholic ceremony under similar circumstances.