HC Deb 28 April 1910 vol 17 cc653-4
Mr. MORTON

asked the Secretary for War whether he is aware that the use of the Territorial Drill Hall at Brora, Sutherland, had been refused to a social party for political reasons; and whether he will take steps to prevent the use of these drill halls being dominated by either political party?

Mr. HALDANE

In order to prevent a recurrence of the rowdyism which bad recently taken place during the night, resulting in damage to property, the hall was refused for a dance following a social meeting held in another hall. The use of the hall was not refused for political reasons, and would have been granted for an ordinary political meeting.

Mr. WATT

Will the right hon. Gentleman say whether the rowdyism was caused by the party which supports my hon. Friend?

Mr. HALDANE

I have no knowledge as to what extent my hon. Friend was associated with that social function.

Mr. MORTON

Might I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether he has any proof that there was any rowdyism at all?

Mr. HALDANE

I only go upon the information supplied to me, and I am told at this dance there was some.

Mr. MORTON

Did your information come from the Tory party?

Mr. HALDANE

I cannot say, but I know damage was done to my property.