HC Deb 03 July 1902 vol 110 cc697-8
MR. WOOD, (Down Co., E.)

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that the Rev. Robert Scott, of Clough, County Down, was removed from the Chaplaincy of the Military Camp, Ballykinlor, County Down, immediately after the East Down election in February last; and whether he will state the reasons for Mr. Scott's dismissal.

MR. BRODRICK

The appointment and removal of clergymen in such cases rest entirely with the local military authorities, and in the interests of decentralisation, I must decline to interfere with their discretion. I have no knowledge of the circumstances, nor have I any reason to suppose they are connected with any election.

MR. WOOD

In consequence of the unsatisfactory nature of the answer, I give notice that I will call attention to the scandalous treatment of this minister on the War Office Vote.

MR. MACVEAGH

Has the right hon. Gentleman asked for any explanation of the rev. gentleman's dismissal?

MR. BRODRICK

No, Sir. I consider it a matter to be dealt with by the local military authorities. If I am to overhaul their action whenever that gives rise to Questions in this House, it will be impossible to give effect to the principle of decentralisation.

MR. MACVEAGH

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that in consequence of statements made—

* MR. SPEAKER

Order, order! The hon. Member must take some other opportunity of raising the question.

MR. MACVEAGH

But threats were used to this clergyman, and have been carried out.