§ 36. Mr. JAMES HOGGEasked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been drawn to the recent boxing contest for the Lonsdale belt in which one of the combatants had his jaw broken in the fourth of thirteen rounds, when he was counted out; and whether he proposes to take any steps to prevent a repetition of such an incident?
§ Mr. McKENNAI have made inquiry and learn that the injury to the jaw did not become manifest until ten minutes after the conclusion of the contest, and that neither the combatant nor the medical men in attendance can say at what point in the contest the injury was done. As my hon. Friend is aware, I have no power to interfere in regard to any boxing match which is an exhibition of skill and is conducted in accordance with proper rules. So far as the police can ascertain, the contest referred to in the question was conducted strictly according to rule, and no irregularity took place.
Mr. C. WASONWill the right hon. Gentleman see that these contests are carried on without inflicting gross personal injuries of this sort?
§ Mr. McKENNAI am unable to say as to this particular contest as to how the injury arose, but so long as the recognised rules are enforced I understand that I have no power at all.
§ Mr. J. HOGGEWill the right hon. Gentleman make some representations to the National Sporting Club that this kind of thing should not be repeated?
§ Mr. McKENNAI believe the National Sporting Club is as desirous as the hon. Member that accidents of this kind should not occur.
§ Major M'CALMONTAre there not many other games in which men get injured such as football and games of that kind, and is there any more reason for him to approach the National Sporting Club than any other club?
§ Mr. McKENNAI think I have sufficiently answered that question.