HC Deb 19 March 1919 vol 113 cc2081-2
33. Mr. SIDNEY ROBINSON

asked the Secretary of State for War if his attention has been called to the statement that, in connection with the Canadians and the Kinmel Park disturbance, the wet canteen was established in Canadian camps in direct opposition to Canadian wishes, and that had there been no liquor at Rhyl Camp there would have been no disturbance; and what steps he proposes to take to prevent a recurrence of such happenings?

Mr. MACMASTER

Before the right hon. Gentleman answers, may I ask him whether he has seen the statement of the Bishop of St. Asaph that the conduct of the Canadian soldiers in that camp was particularly good, and that the real cause of the discontent was the failure to provide shipping in order to enable the soldiers to return to their homes?

Mr. CHURCHILL

I have not seen the Report furnished by the authorities. This matter has been entirely in the hands of the Canadian authorities, and I do not think it is my business to deal with it further than the extent indicated in my answer to the question on the Paper, which is that wet canteens are not, and never have been, instituted for Canadian troops, except on the decision of the Canadian authorities, and I am informed that their provision, so far from proving a cause of disturbance, is believed to have had the contrary effect, as there was much discontent before they were provided.