HC Deb 12 June 1928 vol 218 cc788-9
16. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

asked the Secretary of State for War what special facilities were given for school children to witness the dress rehearsal of the sham fights for the forthcoming Aldershot Military Tattoo; whether children were admitted free and whether educational authorities were invited to give facilities; and whether next year he will consider staging a pageant of a different character at Aldershot instead of a sham fight, in view of the American proposals for the outlawry of war?

Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANS

Tickets at greatly reduced rates were issued to enable school children to attend the daylight rehearsal of the Aldershot Tattoo, and notice of these facilities was given to the educational authorities in Hampshire and the neighbouring counties and in some parts of the London district. I do not share the apprehension of the hon. and gallant Member as to the effect of the presentation of historical episodes.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

May I ask what apprehension my right hon. Friend sees in my question; and, when he has told me that, will he be good enough to answer the last part of my question?

Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANS

My answer referred to the last part of the question.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

May I ask if the right hon. Gentleman would mind answering the last part of my question instead of throwing compliments at me?

Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANS

I have no other answer to give to the last part of the question. I do not think that the type of tattoo which we now stage is in any sense objectionable.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Does the Secretary of State for War think that the apprehensions which he attributes to me will stop if the outlawry of war treaty is carried through?

Mr. SPEAKER

The hon. and gallant Member seems to be debating this question.

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