§ Mr. HINDSasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether it is the intention of His Majesty's Government, under the provisions of the Riot Damages Act, 1886, or any other Act, to recompense traders for the losses sustained by them in consequence of the recent disturbances and damages committed by women in the West End of London?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for the HOME DEPARTMENT (Mr. McKenna)I am advised that there was no riot within the meaning of the Riot (Damages) Act, 1886, on the occasion in question, and consequently that no compensation can be paid under that Act. Apart from the Act I have no power to authorise the payment from public funds of the cost of repairing the damage done. I would point out that the law provides means for recovering from the persons who committed or employed others to commit the damage.
§ Earl WINTERTONMay I ask if an action is now pending against the Commissioner of Police by the National Plate Glass Insurance Company under this Act?
§ Mr. McKENNAIf that be so, I anticipate that the Commissioner of Police will win the action.
§ Mr. J. WARDWhat was the riot in 1886?