HC Deb 30 June 1921 vol 143 cc2329-31
46. Lieut. - Colonel ARCHER - SHEE

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is aware that a meeting of the Irish Self-Determination League was held in Trafalgar Square on Sunday, 26th June, and that the flag of the so-called Irish Republic was carried through the streets of London under police protection; and whether he-will give instructions that in future, if permission is granted for a political demonstration, it will only be granted on the express understanding that no rebel emblems shall be carried in the procession?

The SECRETARY of STATE for the HOME DEPARTMENT (Mr. Shortt)

I am aware of the facts mentioned in the question. No permission is required for these demonstrations; it is only necessary that the rules for Trafalgar Square should be observed and order maintained. Nor can flags of any particular colours be prohibited; action can only be taken if they are used as an incitement to sedition or disorder.

Lieut.-Colonel ARCHER-SHEE

Does my right hon. Friend think that it is a good thing to allow the colours of people who are in rebellion at the present time to be carried through the streets of London; is he aware that, naturally, it is an outrage on the feelings of loyal people in this country?

Mr. SHORTT

I doubt whether many people knew what the flag was.

Earl WINTERTON

Is my right hon. Friend aware that a great deal of injury has been done to the feelings of these unfortunate fathers, mothers, and relations of the police and soldiers of this country who have been murdered in Ireland? Is he aware that this matter, if persisted in, is likely to lead to a most serious breach of the peace in London?

Mr. SHORTT

I am not aware of those things.

Earl WINTERTON

Will the right hon. Gentleman allow me to send him some information on the subject that will tell him something about Ireland that he does not know?

Lieut.-Colonel ARCHER-SHEE

Will the right hon. Gentleman give permission for an anti-Sinn Fein meeting to be held in Trafalgar Square at the same time and place?

Mr. DEVLIN

Cannot the hon. and gallant Gentleman hold a meeting anywhere he likes?

48. Colonel NEWMAN

asked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been called to a display of rebel flags on the Nelson monument during a recent Irish republican demonstration in Trafalgar Square; whether he is aware of the great irritation thereby occasioned to loyal citizens, and that another demonstration of a similar character has been arranged to be held in Trafalgar Square on 2nd July; and whether he will take steps to ensure that that demonstration shall not be of such a character as may lead to any breach of order?

Mr. SHORTT

I am aware that flags were displayed on this occasion, but I understand that the general public treated them with indifference. I am informed that a meeting to advocate peace with Ireland is to be held in Trafalgar Square on the 2nd July. No disorder is anticipated. If any should occur the police will deal with it.

Colonel NEWMAN

Does that mean that the right hon. Gentleman has been asked to give permission for this meeting to be held?

Mr. SHORTT

In the first place application for permission was not made to me. In any case, as long as the Regulations are complied with people are entitled to meet there.

Captain Viscount CURZON

Has any action been taken to prevent these intolerable demonstrations being held in London?