HC Deb 06 June 1919 vol 116 cc2417-8
21. Mr. HURD

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will state the result of his inquiries regarding the circumstances in which, at a public football match held under influential local auspices at Midsomer Norton, demobilised soldiers and sailors were prevented from making a collection which had been previously advertised in aid of all crippled and disabled men in the district; by what authority that action was taken; and for what reason?

THE UNDER-SECRETARY OF STATE FOR THE HOME DEPARTMENT (Colonel Sir Hamar Greenwood)

I am informed that as soon as the police became aware of the proposed entertainment they called the attention of the promoters to the requirements of the War Charities Act, 1916, and gave them such assistance as they could to comply with them, but that the promoters preferred to abandon the collection rather than register as required by the Act.

Mr. HURD

Was that notice given some time prior to the gathering which was properly advertised?

Sir H. GREENWOOD

I am sorry I cannot answer that question.

Mr. HURD

It is a question on the Paper.