§ MR. THORNE (West Ham, S.)I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War whether his attention has been called to a meeting that was held at the Star Hotel, Crieff, on Tuesday evening, 4th February, at which Captain Bathue, adjutant, delivered an address and conferred with intending recruits in connection 1525 with the Scottish Horse, Imperial Yeomanry, D. Squadron; and if he has sanctioned the holding of meetings in licensed premises for recruiting purposes.
§ MR. HALDANENothing is known of this matter at the War Office. The General Officer Commanding-in-Chief concerned has been called upon to report upon the subject.
§ MR. COURTHOPEIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that sometimes licensed premises are the only places available for holding a meeting in rural districts?
§ MR. HALDANEThat may be so, and it is very unfortunate. But it should be avoided wherever possible.