§ EARL GRANVILLEAs there have been some rather uncertain and conflicting reports regarding the Metropolitan Police and also regarding an incident at Wellington Barracks—although the two matters do not seem to be in connection—I have given private notice to the noble Marquess that I would ask him whether he can state how these matters stand? Of course, I do not ask the question with the slightest intention of embarrassing the Government; but I think an authentic statement, particularly if, as I believe it may be, of a reassuring character, will be satisfactory to the House and to the public.
§ THE PRIME MINISTER AND SECRETARY OF STATE FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS (The Marquess of SALISBURY)I have seen the Chief Commissioner of Police, and I gather from him that the disturbance last night has been somewhat exaggerated in the reports which have appeared in the morning papers, and, even according to those reports, was not of a very aggravated character; but it is undoubtedly true that there has been a certain disaffection in a small and limited section of the police, and that it was at Bow Street and in its neighbourhood especially that the influence of that section was felt. Under the circumstances, and as a crowd of a not very reputable character assembled in that locality, the Assistant Commissioner thought' it desirable to send for a squadron of the Life Guards. Their appearance was quite sufficient to restore order, and, as far as it is possible to judge, there is no reason for apprehending that order will be disturbed again. If it is, of course there is ample preparation for any such contingency. With respect to the other matter, I speak with more hesitation, in the first place because it is a military matter, on which a civilian must necessarily speak with 1042 much doubt, and, also, because it is the subject of investigation by a Court of Inquiry. Therefore, it would be undesirable for me to express an opinion when evidence is being received and sifted, and the result of that evidence will, no doubt, be before the public before long. Though any breach of military discipline is very much to be deplored, and ought to be visited with proper punishment, still, I think that it would be absurd to lend any importance to what has taken place. It is an accidental want of discipline in a particular part of Her Majesty's Army, and I have no doubt that it will be very speedily remedied, and that discipline will be restored.