HC Deb 21 October 1912 vol 42 cc1704-5
55. Mr. BARNSTON

asked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been called to a speech deliveied by Mrs. Pankhurst last Thursday openly advocating window smashing and other destruction of property; and whether the police propose to take action so as to prevent, tradesmen and others suffering financial loss from such conduct?

Mr. McKENNA

The police will do their utmost to prevent property being destroyed in the manner indicated.

56. Lord ROBERT CECIL

asked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been called to a speech delivered by Mrs. Pankhurst on Thursday last, in which she urged her hearers to break windows and to do other injury to property; and whether the Government are going to take any proceedings against her in consequence?

Mr. McKENNA

This is a question' which should be addressed to my right. hon. Friend, the Attorney-General.

Lord ROBERT CECIL

Does not the question of whether proceedings shall be taken come before the Home Secretary?

Mr. McKENNA

It is conceivable that the Attorney-General might consult me' on the point, but primarily the question! should be addressed to him.

Mr. KELLAWAY

Has the right hon. Gentleman noticed that on this occasion Mrs. Pankhurst justified her speech by reference to the action of the Orangemen in Belfast?

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