HC Deb 23 February 1911 vol 21 cc2075-6
Mr. YERBURGH

asked the Secretary of State whether he is aware that the exhibition of the red flag and the use of trea- sonable language on the national monument erected to commemorate the services of Nelson are resented by loyal citizens without distinction of party; and whether he will arrange for the speakers at anarchist, republican, and insurrectionary meetings held in Trafalgar Square to be accommodated with a platform other than the plinth of the Nelson column?

Mr. CHURCHILL

The use of the plinth for public meetings has been allowed by successive Governments for many years, and I see no reason to interfere with the established practice. If any speakers use seditious language they can, if necessary, be prosecuted; but there is no ground for differentiating between the treatment of speakers at one meeting and speakers at another.

Mr. YERBURGH

Is it the right hon. Gentleman's opinion that long usage of a bad practice justifies its continuance?