HC Deb 10 April 1902 vol 105 c1439
MR. MACVEAGH (Down, S.)

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War whether his attention has been called to the fact that a lance corporal in the Engineers at Gibraltar was ordered by a sergeant to remove from his cap a sprig of shamrock on St. Patrick's day; whether this instruction was consequently cancelled by the Commanding Officer; and whether the sergeant has been censured for his conduct.

LORD STANLEY

I am not aware of the incident referred to.

MR. MACVEAGH

Will the noble Lord inquire?

LORD STANLEY

No, Sir.

MR. MACVEAGH

In view of the fact that Her late Majesty directed that permission should be given for the wearing of the shamrock, is this not a proper matter for inquiry?

LORD STANLEY

Every soldier has a proper and legitimate way of bringing his grievances before his Commanding Officer.