Mr. FRED HALL (Dulwich)asked the Home Secretary if he is in a position to state that in no case has the working of any coal mine been prevented by actual or anticipated violence or intimidation?
§ Mr. McKENNAIt is impossible for me or for anyone to say how far the action of the men on strike may have been governed by fears well founded or otherwise of possible violence. I think, however, the House will agree that, considering the extent and magnitude of the strike, it is remarkable how few and insignificant have been the disturbances accompanying it. Perhaps I may be allowed to take this opportunity of recognising the assistance which the leaders of the miners have rendered by their speeches and influence in the maintenance of law and order.
Mr. FRED HALLAlthough there has not been much trouble, does the right hon. Gentleman recognise the enormous amount of distress which exists amongst those who, in consequence of the coal strike, are not allowed to work?
The HON. MEMBERfurther asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he had any information with regard to an outrage by a number of miners at the collieries of Richard Evans and Co., of Haydock, Lanes, on 13th March, in which three constables were stated to have been so injured as to necessitate their removal to hospital?
§ Mr. McKENNAA slight disturbance took place at the Haydock Colliery on the 13th. It appears to have been occasioned by the employment of other than surface-men to fill coal wagons. The police were stoned, and three of them were slightly injured; but order was promptly restored, and I am informed by the chief constable that he does not anticipate a recurrence of the disturbance.
Mr. FRED HALLHas the right hon. Gentleman taken, or will he take, the necessary steps to bring the offenders to justice?
§ Mr. McKENNAI hope the hon. Gentleman will not mind my saying so, but I deprecate very much questions which can only create feelings of anger.