§ Mr. Prittasked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that a series of loud explosions, being apparently part of a firework display in connection with a social function, took place at the Ranelagh Club at Barnes on the night of the 15th 16th July, wakening numbers of residents in neighbouring houses from their sleep and causing them alarm and distress; whether the Metropolitan Police have taken any steps in the matter; and whether he will cause inquiry to be made with a view to prosecuting the persons responsible and preventing any repetition of such conduct?
§ Mr. LloydMy right hon. Friend has made inquiry and finds that certain complaints in regard to this display were received by the police over the telephone on the night of the 15th-16th July. These complaints were immediately communicated by the police to the club, but they had no power to take any other action in the matter. The reports which my right hon. Friend has received do not disclose any offence in respect of which proceedings could have been taken.