HC Deb 28 July 1909 vol 8 cc1154-5
Mr. WILLIAM THORNE

asked the Home Secretary if his attention has been called to the action of the police in Trafalgar-square on Sunday last, 25th July, in attacking several persons, men and women, who were engaged in selling a newspaper called "Justice," and tearing the papers from them and confiscating them; and whether he will cause inquiry to be made into the matter, or if he can give any explanation of this action on the part of the police?

Mr. GLADSTONE

The police seized, without using unnecessary force, certain papers which contained pictorial and press matter of a nature calculated to incite to crime and to provoke a disturbance of the peace. Their action, in my opinion, was fully justified.

Mr. REES

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether retribution has not properly overtaken those who sell "Justice"?

Mr. THORNE

I wish to ask whether the Home Secretary saw a copy of the paper before instructions were given to the Chief Commissioner of Police?

Mr. GLADSTONE

I saw a copy of the paper before and since.

Mr. THORNE

Am I to understand that the freedom of the Press is entirely in the hands of the Chief Commissioner of Police?

Mr. GLADSTONE

When the freedom of the Press is abused the police have to act in the execution of their duty.

Mr. THORNE

Who has to decide when the freedom of the Press is abused?

Mr. GLADSTONE

If the police cannot form their own opinions, they can consult those who are over them, who have special responsibility.

Mr. THORNE

Would it not be as well to consult the Czar before you introduce Russian methods?

Mr. SWIFT MacNEILL

Will the right hon. Gentleman give these policemen billets in India?

Mr. THORNE

Here is a copy of the paper. There is nothing outrageous in it.

Mr. SPEAKER

Any further questions on this matter must be put on the Paper.