*COLONEL LEGGE (St. George's, Hanover Square)To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether his attention has been called to the interference with business caused to shopkeepers in London by the recent daily processions of unemployed through the streets for the purpose of collecting money; and whether it is proposed to take any steps in the matter.
(Answered by Mr. Secretary AkersDouglas.) I have received representations to the effect indicated, and I have given anxious attention to these and all other considerations affecting the question. I have been in constant consultation with the Commissioner of Police, who has been acting, with my approval, to the full extent, as I am advised, of his powers. One of his chief objects has been to minimise the hindrance to traffic caused by the processions; and I believe that as much has been done to prevent undue inconvenience to the public as is possible in the existing state of the law. Whether the law should be altered and additional powers be given to the police is a matter for serious consideration; and I hope that the Royal Commission on London Traffic may throw light upon the subject, which is one of considerable difficulty.