§ Mr. LYNCHasked the Home Secretary whether a play, entitled "Quits," by Laurence Cowen, has been licensed, whereas in the case of a play entitled "Tricked," by the same author, a licence has been refused, although the two plays are identical except in inessential differences of names and localities and such changes as these have necessitated; and whether he will introduce legislation to render such a contingency impossible in the future?
§ Mr. McKENNAI am informed that the play entitled "Quits" has been licensed for performance. The Lord Chamberlain has no knowledge that it is by the same author as a play entitled "Tricked." The Lord Chamberlain is of opinion that the two plays are not identical, and is unable to agree that the differences alluded to are inessential.
§ Mr. LYNCHIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the second play was written with the express purpose of making a play that was identical except in-the merest inessentials?
§ Mr. McKENNANo. Sir; I know nothing whatever about the intention of the author.
Mr. MONTAGUE BARLOWMay I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether the play, "Tricked," refers to the position of the nation with regard to the Parliament Bill and the Home Rule Bill?
§ Mr. McKENNAI believe not.
§ Mr. R. HARCOURTWill the right hon. Gentleman answer the last part of the question: whether he intends to introduce legislation? Will he also say whether or not he disagrees with the report of the Postmaster-General's Committee?
§ Mr. McKENNAAs regards the last part of the question, I have been unable to concur with the facts alleged in the question itself, and therefore it does not arise.