HC Deb 27 March 1911 vol 23 c888
Mr. SANDYS

asked who were the persons responsible for the entertainment at Barrow-In-Furness Town Hall on St. Patrick's Day, to which men from His Majesty's ship "Hermione" were refused admission because they were in uniform?

Mr. MacNEILL

Before the hon. Gentleman replies, is he aware that the entertainment referred to was held under the auspices of the United Irish League and kindred associations, and was part of an Irish Nationalist demonstration, at which political speeches were delivered; that admission was limited to Irish Nationalists and persons in well-known sympathy with Irish aspirations; and that the sailors were refused admission because the hall was full, and after well-known Irish Nationalists had been refused admission for want of room?

Dr. MACNAMARA

I am generally aware of that, because I heard the hon. Member say so last week. As to the question on the Paper, I understand that the entertainment was given by the local branch of the United Irish League of Great Britain. My right hon. Friend the First Lord stated on Thursday last that there is a conflict of evidence as to the reason for which admission was refused to men from His Majesty's ship "Hermione."

Sir HENRY DALZIEL

Has the hon. Gentleman yet received a report from the police of the district?

Dr. MACNAMARA

No.

Mr. MacVEAGH

Are not soldiers and sailors in uniform habitually excluded from hotels, restaurants, and theatres in this country, and even from the gallery of this House?