WEARING OF THE SHAMROCK BY IRISH SOLDIERS.

HC Deb 20 February 1900 vol 79 cc562-3

MR. PATRICK O'BRIEN

I beg to ask the Under Secretary of State for War whether instructions will be given to commanding officers in South Africa not to prohibit the wearing of shamrock by Irish soldiers on St. Patrick's Day next; and whether any stops will be taken by the War Office to send shamrock to the Irish troops in South Africa.

MR. WYNDHAM

No instructions are necessary. Commanding officers have authority to allow emblems to be worn, if they think it expedient.

MR. PATRICK O'BRIEN

The hon. Member has not answered the last part of the question.

MR. WYNDHAM

The War Office is very fully occupied in sending to South Africa for the benefit of the troops stores of a more substantial character, which in the circumstances are likely to be more appreciated.