HC Deb 18 March 1907 vol 171 cc476-7
CAPTAIN CRAIG (Down, E.)

I beg to ask the President of the Board of Education whether he is aware that about 14,000 children attending public elementary schools at Sheffield, intend holding a great Empire Day demonstration at Bramall †See (4) Debates, clxxi., 243. Lane on 20th June next, a date closely associated with the life of the late Queen Victoria; and whether, with a view to encouraging a similar spirit of loyalty and patriotism among the youth of this country generally, he will circularise the various education authorities in Great Britain and Ireland suggesting that they should copy the example being set by Sheffield.

MR. McKenna

I hardly think it comes within the province of the Board of Education to instigate the holding of demonstrations.

SIR HOWARD VINCENT

Is the celebration of Empire Day a demonstration?

MR. McKenna

It is so described by the hon. and gallant Gentleman in his Question.