E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Gangway (g hard).
Below the gangway. In the House of Commons there is a sort of bar extending across the House, which separates the Ministry and the Opposition from the rest of the members. To sit “below the gangway” is to sit amongst the general members, neither among the Ministers nor with the Opposition.
1
Clear the gangway. Make room for the passengers from the boat, clear the passage. (See GANG-BOARD.)
