MR. CATHCART WASONI beg to ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if his attention has been directed to the recent case of manslaughter on the stage; and if he will take into consideration the desirability of prohibiting all public performances involving danger to men, women, children, and animals.
§ MR. GLADSTONEI presume the hon. Member refers to the unfortunate accident which occurred last Monday night at the Middlesex Music Hall, and which resulted in the death of a man who was hit by a rifle bullet in the course of a stage performance. The jury brought in a verdict, not of manslaughter, but of accidental death. The performance is, in my opinion, reprehensible, and ought not to have been allowed by those responsible for it. I am communicating with the London County Council on the subject.
§ MR. H. C. LEAMay I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether he is aware that two years ago I put a Question to him on this subject of prohibiting performances of this character, and he rather gave me to understand that he would appoint a Departmental Committee to inquire into the subject?
§ MR. GLADSTONENo, Sir, I hinted at legislation. A Bill was prepared, and, I think, introduced, but its reception was so extremely unfavourable that the Bill has not been heard of since.
§ MR. H. C. LEAIn view of the altered opinion of this House, would the right hon. Gentleman bring it in again?
§ MR. GLADSTONEI am not at all sure that the opinion of the House has altered.