§ MR. ASQUITHMr. Speaker, in view of the disorderly and discreditable proceedings which occurred to-night in the places to which strangers of both sexes are ordinarily admitted, I have, as Leader of the House, to ask you whether, in your opinion, any steps can or ought to be taken to maintain the dignity and order of the House.
§ MR. A. J. BALFOURThough I have not the same responsibility for the Whole House as falls to the right hon. Gentleman, I desire to associate myself with him, if I may.
§ *MR. SPEAKERIn reply to the right hon. Gentleman I have to say that, in consequence of what has occurred, the decencies of the House having been violated and the privileges granted by this House having been grossly abused, and not for the first time, I have felt it my duty, most reluctantly, to order that for a time the Strangers' Gallery and the Ladies' Gallery be closed.
§ Whereupon Mr. SPEAKER, pursuant to the Order of the House of 31st July, adjourned the House without Question put.
§ Adjourned at Eleven o'clock.