22. Sir F. HALLasked the Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department 658 whether he will consider as to the introduction of legislation to prevent the intimidation and violence at present practised under cover of the Trades Disputes Act towards those desiring to work, by the introduction of undesirable elements outside the trade unions concerned in such circumstances as obtained during the railway strike?
Mr. DAVIESIt is the duty of the police under the existing law to prevent violence and intimidation, and I am not aware of any necessity for legislation.
Sir F. HALLIs the hon. Gentleman not aware that there is an enormous amount of violence in some of these strikes, and will he take steps to strengthen the hands of the police in order that they may deal with those people who try to preclude others from obtaining the usual amount of work they desire?
§ Mr. HAYESIs it not a fact that the law in respect of the protection of both employers and employés is quite strong enough for the police to take effective action in these disputes?