20. Mr. ROBERT RICHARDSONasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is aware that, arising out of a trade dispute at certain collieries in the South Shields district, miners were picketing outside the St. Hilda colliery on the night of Sunday, 9th July, when quiet and order were maintained; that on the Monday the chief constable was informed that the pickets would be there again on the Monday night, and he replied to the effect that the police would be ready for them; that in the early hours of Tuesday morning the police charged and batoned the crowd which had assembled; that on Friday, 14th July, a demonstration of unemployed outside the guardians' offices was similarly treated; and whether he will institute inquiries into these actions of the South Shields police towards 2255 assemblies of people who had neither threatened nor shown any violence?
Mr. SHORTTFrom the reports which I have received regarding the incidents to which the hon. Member refers, it would appear that on neither occasion did the police charge until the crowd had resorted to violent measures; and I see no ground for any action on my part. I should add that the primary responsibility for investigating any complaint as to the conduct of the police rests with the Borough Watch Committee, in whom the control of the force is vested by law.
Mr. RICHARDSONIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that on the other side that statement is absolutely denied, and will he have inquiries made into the matter?
Mr. SHORTTMy information is very complete and in detail, and I really do not see any good in making further inquiries.
Mr. RICHARDSONIs the right hon. Gentleman not aware of the real discontent which has been created by these people being called upon to suffer these pains and penalties, and will he have an inquiry made?
Mr. SHORTTI am afraid that I cannot hold an inquiry, and the hon. Member must apply to the local watch committee if he wants an inquiry.