HC Deb 02 May 1913 vol 52 cc1544-5W
Mr. VINCENT KENNEDY

asked the Chief Secretary whether a force of police, accompanied by an acting-sergeant, attempted to force their way into a private football ground in Killeshandra on the 20th instant; if these men entered the grounds; how long they remained; whether they were on duty and observed the full discipline that the same entails; and, if they or any of them were merely spectators; whether they are entitled qua policemen to free entrance to football matches and such pastimes for which a charge is made to the public?

Mr. BIRRELL

I am informed that an acting-sergeant and five constables attended on duty at a football match at Killeshandra on the date mentioned for the purpose of preserving the peace. These men, who remained on duty for two hours and observed the full discipline of the force, did not force their way into the ground, as on declining to pay the entrance money they were admitted. Two members of the force who were present, but not on duty, paid for admission. The answer to the last part of the question is in the negative.