§ 55. Sir JOHN LONSDALEasked the Prime Minister if he is aware that recruiting meetings held in connection with assemblies of men to watch football matches have produced disappointing results: and whether, in view of the gravity of the crisis and the need for recruits, he will introduce legislation taking powers to suppress all professional football matches during the continuance of the War?
§ The PRIME MINISTERCommunications are taking place with those who are responsible for the organisation of football matches from which I hope for good results. I do not consider that a case exists for such legislation as the hon. Member suggests.
§ Sir J. LONSDALEIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that on Saturday last, notwithstanding the most strenuous efforts at a number of football grounds attended by many thousands of people, only one recruit to the Colours was obtained?
§ The PRIME MINISTERYes, I saw that in the papers; but, on the other hand, I am glad to say that in Scotland there was a very different response.
§ Sir J. LONSDALEWill the right hon. Gentleman take steps to stop this scandal at once by introducing legislation to commandeer all football grounds for military purposes?
The PRIME MINISTERSwould rather trust to the progress of the communications which have taken place, and appeal to the general good sense of all football players.