§ 73. Mr. TOUCHEasked the right hon. Gentleman if the police have received instructions to interfere with public meetings held at Gillingham Street, Pimlico, where meetings have been held for many years past by the Salvation Army. Socialists, suffragettes, and other propagandists; is he aware that the constable on patrol has recently interfered with meetings of the Salvation Army and with a meeting or meetings held to protest against alleged abuses in police administration, and cautioned the leaders; and the grounds of interference with these meetings?
§ Mr. McKENNANo such instructions as are described in the question have been given. When the constable on patrol at the place indicated has had reason to apprehend that obstruction would be caused by a meeting, he has cautioned the promoter, and if his caution has been disregarded and obstruction has resulted, he has reported the promoter with a view to his being summoned.
§ Mr. J. WARDDoes not the right hon. Gentleman think that the arrangement by which he and his Friends govern, and these people are allowed to talk, should be continued?
§ Mr. McKENNAI am not quite sure that I have caught the point of my hon. Friend. We have not interfered with the meetings which are held.
§ Mr. J. WARDMy question was, does not the right hon. Gentleman think that the arrangement by which the people outside are allowed to talk, while he and his Friends are allowed to govern, is an arrangement that should not be upset?
§ Mr. McKENNAOh, yes, it is an excellent arrangement.