§ MR. J. F. X. O'BRIEN (Cork)I beg to ask the First Lord of the Admiralty whether wearing the shamrock on St. Patrick's Day is prohibited in the Navy; and, if not, under what conditions is it permitted?
§ THE FIRST LORD OF THE ADMIRALTYThere are no regulations concerning the wearing of the shamrock any more than wearing the rose, thistle, or leek. No deviation from established uniform is permitted without express authority.
§ MR. J. F. X. O'BRIENMay I ask whether a man will be fined or sent to the cells for wearing the rose or the thistle in the same way as one has been fined for wearing the shamrock?
§ THE FIRST LORD OF THE ADMIRALTYNo sailor will be fined unless he disobeys orders. Permission would be given in any of the four cases named.
§ MR. J. F. X. O'BRIENWould an officer command a man to take the rose out of his coat on St. George's Day—
§ MR. SPEAKEROrder, order! The hon. Member is arguing the Question.