§ 48. Mr. LUNNasked the Home Secretary whether, in view of the discontent existing in the Metropolitan Police and developing amongst the police forces in the provinces owing to the restriction placed on the rights of meeting of members of the Police Federation, he will state what further steps he proposes to take to allay this discontent?
§ Sir J. GILMOURSo far as I am aware, no restriction is being placed upon any rights of meeting of members of the Police Federation, and I am satisfied that they have full opportunity for submitting their representations. My hon. Friend may have in mind the question of the 746 holding of open meetings. The holding of such meetings requires special justification, and the reasons for withholding permission have been explained in reply to previous questions on the subject.
§ Mr. LUNNHas not the right lion. Gentleman seen the comments of police organisations regarding this restriction; and can he say how far it is the outcome of the militarisation of the police command?
§ Sir J. GILMOURThere is no question of militarisation. I have to administer the Act of Parliament which lays down what is the proper procedure for the police to follow. In so far as that is correct, they will be permitted to have these privileges which Parliament has given them. Anything outside that is not a matter which they have any right to demand.
§ Mr. ATTLEEHave restrictions been placed on police attending meetings in other divisions than their own?
§ Sir J. GILMOURThat may well be, and, if it is so, it is probably properly done.