§ CAPTAIN DONELANI beg to ask the Under Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that, although the shamrock was conferred upon the Royal Munster Fusiliers as a special badge in 291 the year 1881, no such badge appears upon any portion of the regimental uniform; and whether, in view of the fact that the Army List indicates the possession of this privilege, steps will be taken to enable the Royal Minister Fusiliers to wear the national emblem to which they are entitled?
§ MR. BRODRICKFrom the year 1881 the shamrock has been borne upon the colours of the Royal Minister Fusiliers, but has not been worn as a badge. Neither uniform nor badge has been changed in this regiment for 17 years, except as regards the new field cap. Before this was adopted it was seen by both battalions and was understood to meet their wishes.
§ CAPTAIN DONELANIs it not the fact that the shamrock-pattern lace is worn by every Irish regiment; and why should not the Royal Minister Fusiliers be allowed to wear the badge to which they are entitled?
§ MR. BRODRICKI cannot explain the reason for every badge that is worn in the Army; but our object is not to disturb them.
§ CAPTAIN DONELANIs any other regiment in the Army prohibited wearing its badge?
§ MR. BRODRICKThat I cannot say.