HC Deb 16 November 1911 vol 31 cc516-7
Mr. OLIVER LOCKER-LAMPSON

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether his attention has been called to the recent magisterial decision at Birmingham upon boxing; and whether he will introduce legislation to modify the effect of that decision with a view to permitting proper public boxing contests, and preserving this old English sport?

Mr. McKENNA

I have seen reports of the decision referred to, and I understand that the magistrate is willing to state a case for the High Court if it is alleged that the decision is wrong on any point of law. I do not propose to introduce legislation on the subject.

Mr. CLAUDE LOWTHER

Will the right hon. Gentleman give us some assurance that no grandmotherly legislation shall be brought in which will affect an old English sport and pastime, which on some occasions has been indulged in even by hon. Members on this side of the House?

Mr. McKENNA

As I have stated that I do not propose to introduce any legislation at all it could not, therefore, be grandmotherly or otherwise.