HC Deb 16 March 1916 vol 80 cc2256-7
73. Mr. GINNELL

asked the Minister of Munitions the total cost to the State of the last women's demonstration at West-minster, organised at his instance by Suffragists and addressed by him; to whom the principal payments were made; and where and under what head an account of this expenditure may be seen?

Dr. ADDISON

This demonstration was a part of the general campaign for promoting the employment of women on munitions work, and the expenditure referred to will be charged against the Vote for the Ministry of Munitions. I do not see that any public advantage will be gained by anticipating a part of this Vote, which will, in accordance with the usual procedure, be submitted to Parliament in due course after the close of the financial year.

Mr. ANDERSON

Do I understand from that reply that the demonstration organised by Mrs. Pankhurst was paid for out of public money?

Dr. ADDISON

There were certain contributions out of public money.

Mr. PRINGLE

Are we to understand that this demonstration was organised by the person whose paper has been suppressed by the Government?

Dr. ADDISON

I cannot say that. It was part of a campaign to encourage women to take part in munition work, and it has been extraordinarily successful.

Mr. KING

Has the Minister of Munitions seen the papers which Mrs. Pankhurst is weekly sending out?

Mr. SPEAKER

That does not arise on this question.