§ 37. Mr. MARDY JONESasked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that the women's section of the Newport Labour party made an application to the officer in command of the 1st Monmouthshire Regiment at the drill hall, Newport. (Mon.), for the hire of the drill hall for a sale of work, and that their application was refused on the ground that the drill hall could not be let for charitable or trade purposes; whether he is aware that, despite the reason given for the refusal, the drill hall has in fact been frequently let for chapel bazaars, for boxing contests, and for trade shows; and will he make inquiries into the matter?
Lieut.-Colonel GUINNESSI have made inquiries, and I understand that the refusal was in accordance with the consistent policy of the battalion, which is not to let the hall to any political party in any circumstances. I am not in a position to interfere with the discretion of the local authorities in the matter.
§ Mr. JONESIs the hon. and gallant Gentleman not aware as a result of his inquiries that this hall has been let for party purposes, and for purposes contrary to the conditions set out in the refusal given on this occasion?
Lieut.-Colonel GUINNESSI am not aware of that. I made inquiries, and I am told it has only been let. for the purposes mentioned in the hon. Member's 1263 question, namely, charitable or trade purposes.
§ Mr. CLARRYIs the Under-Secretary for War aware that during the last 25 years this hall has never been let to any political organisation whatever?