§ 11. Mr. MARCHasked the Home Secretary whether he has had an opportunity of examining the claims made by some inhabitants of Poplar who were injured and had property destroyed by the police after the baton charge made by them on 12th May last; and what action he proposes to take to meet the claims?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSI am not aware that any property was destroyed by the police. Three claims for compensation under the Riot (Damages) Act, which have been submitted, have not yet been determined but are being examined by the Receiver for the Metropolitan Police District, who is the authority for dealing with such claims arising in the district.
§ Mr. MARCHHas the right hon. Gentleman received a report from the police-inspector of Poplar who went down on purpose and was shown the property which was destroyed, in one case of the value of nearly £20?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSI have received several police reports in regard to this matter, but while the case is pending it would be quite improper that I should ask for details, or to announce them in this House.
§ Mr. MARCHMight I remind the Home Secretary—[HON. MEMBERS: "Order, order!"] Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that in the answer he has just given he says that he is not aware that any property was destroyed by the police?