HC Deb 11 July 1916 vol 84 cc195-6
34. Mr. KING

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is aware that a domiciliary visit was paid on 1st July to a house in Lexham Gardens, and that among other papers taken away was an account of a speech on education delivered before the War by Sir Victor Horsley, F.R.S.; whether especial suspicion attaches to the pre-war utterances or subsequent conduct of this gentleman; and whether this document will now be returned to the owner?

Mr. SAMUEL

I am informed that a visit was paid on 1st July to a house in Lexham Gardens and papers were taken for examination, but I understand that no such document as that referred to was seen or was among the papers taken away.

Mr. KING

As this was a valuable document which was taken, will steps be taken to return it?

Mr. SAMUEL

It cannot be returned if it was not taken.

35. Mr. KING

asked the Home Secretary of State whether he is aware that on 1st July a domiciliary visit was paid by the police to a house in Lexham Gardens; whether it was acting upon his instructions that the police took away a number of papers, including lectures on education and other matters totally unconnected with the War, the military position, or existing conditions, and mostly written or printed before 1914; why large packets of note-paper and printed forms were thrown into utter confusion on the floor and trodden underfoot; why the lady's bedroom was similarly treated and cigarette ends and tobacco ash left freely on furniture; and whether, no charge having been made against the occupier of these premises, he will say whether peaceable subjects must expect similar treatment?

Mr. SAMUEL

The visit in question was, I understand, made by the police in the execution of their duties under the Defence of the Realm Regulations. As soon as the printed matter seized had been examined the bulk of it was returned to the owner. I am assured that the police were not responsible for any occurrence such as is described in the last part but one of the question.

Mr. KING

As I myself visited those-premises a short time ago, may I be-allowed to give my personal experience?.

HON. MEMBERS

No, no!

Mr. SPEAKER

Perhaps the hon. Member will narrate his personal experiences in the Lobby.