In the days when it was customary for gentlemen to carry swords, Parlia: ment decreed that no Member should enter the debating Chamber bearing arms. Straps from which swords were suspended in the cloakrooms are still to be seen. In peacetime few members carry lethal weapons, but the rule has never been rescinded.
Today when many M.P.'s are serving in H. M. Forces and visit the House in uniform, the ancient precaution is observed. Revolvers are handed in with hats and coats.
The banning of all arms has been challenged by Scottish Members who have appeared at Westminister in Highland dress. Part of the dress is the "skean dhu," worn in the stock-
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.