HC Deb 13 March 1930 vol 236 cc1466-7
24. Mr. FREEMAN

asked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that at a public meeting held in the Friends Hall, Euston Road, W.O., on Thursday, 27th February, 1930, to protest against the use of poison gas in experiments on dogs, there was an organised attempt to interrupt the meeting by medical students in spite of the efforts of from 20 to 30 policemen and about 40 stewards; and whether he will take measures to see that such meetings are protected from disturbance?

Mr. CLYNES

No, Sir, my information is quite different. A number of police were available but their assistance was not called for or required and I am informed that the stewards had no occasion to take action against interrupters.

Mr. FREEMAN

Is it not a fact that the meeting was continually interrupted by booing and stink bombs which prevented the meeting taking place?

Mr. CLYNES

I have no information as to the fact that the interruptions took that form.

Lieut.-Colonel FREMANTLE

Has the Home Secretary any power to prevent meetings being held which are likely to lead to a disturbance of the peace?

Mr. CLYNES

It might lead to a disturbance if we tried to prevent meetings being held.