§ 22. Major NEWMANasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether his attention has been drawn to the Workers' and Soldiers' Council, a body in connection with the Union of Democratic Control, and which was started in the interests of Russian aliens in the East End of London soon after the debacle of Bolshevism took place in Russia; is he aware of the revolutionary propaganda that this body of alien enemies is preaching; and what steps will he take to remove these persons from the East End of London?
§ Sir G. CAVEI understand that this body was established in the first half of 1917, but that for the last eight months it has had no recognised offices and holds no public meetings. If the hon. and gallant Member has evidence showing that the council is affiliated to the Union of Democratic Control, is engaged in revolutionary propaganda, and is composed of alien enemies. T shall be glad if he will submit it to me.
§ Mr. BILLINGMay I ask the right hon Gentleman whether he is aware that aliens are addressing meetings and preaching revolutionary matter; and, if he has the power, would he be prepared to consider the issue of permits to aliens before they are allowed to address meetings, so as to enable the police to inquire whether they have such permits, and to stop the meetings if they have not?
§ Sir G. CAVENo; I do not think that is a desirable course to take. It was considered as an alternative, but it was thought better to make an Order that empowers me to prevent them addressing; meetings.
§ Mr. BILLINGSurely the right hon. Gentleman is aware that after the meeting has taken place it is too late, and that it is better to empower the police to prevent the meeting unless they are satisfied that the speaker has your authority to address the meeting?
§ Sir G. CAVEThat is so in some cases, but to make an Order forbidding all aliens, including Allies, to address meetings would be quite a different matter.