§ SIR HENEY CRAIK (Glasgow and Aberdeen Universities)I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War whether his attention has been called to an item in the Military Tournament, which consists of a burlesque of the Indian Native cavalry, in which the performers were got up to represent so wars; whether the authorities responsible have considered whether such an item is one which is worthy of the British Army; and whether he will take steps to prevent the appearance in the Royal Military Tournament of a caricature of the most loyal troops in India, whose skill in these exercises is unrivalled.
§ MR. HALDANEI am informed by the Tournament authorities that this item in the Tournament is in no way a burlesque on the Indian Native cavalry. The best riders and tent peggers available have been picked out for this performance, which is intended to be a reproduction of the very excellent display given by the Native Indian cavalry at the Tournament a few years ago. I may add that similar displays have been given for several years past.
§ SIR HENRY CRAIKIS the right hon. Gentleman aware that it was so commented on in the London Press and so accepted by the representatives of the Native Indian cavalry?
§ MR. HALDANEIf I attended to everything in the London Press I should have a great deal to do.
§ SIR HENRY CRAIKWas it so accepted by the representatives of the Native Indian cavalry in England?
§ MR. HALDANEI do not know.
§ SIR HENRY CRAIKDoes the right hon. Gentleman think it is likely that such a performance—
§ * MR. SPEAKERThat will be a matter of opinion.