§ 14. Earl WINTERTONasked the Home Secretary if it is proposed to take legal proceedings against persons organising processions in contravention of the Sessional Order of this House?
§ Sir J. GILMOURI think that my Noble Friend is under some misapprehension. No offence is created by the Sessional Order, which is addressed to the Commissioner of Police; but disregard of directions given by the Commissioner in pursuance of the Order or otherwise may involve offences for which proceedings can be and have been taken, such as breaches of the peace or obstruction of the police in the execution of their duty.
§ Earl WINTERTONIs my right hon. Friend not aware that in addition to the Sessional Order there is an Act of Parliament which prohibits these processions within half-a-mile of the House of Commons, and why cannot he proceed against these persons for conspiracy to break the law?
§ Sir J. GILMOURWherever the evidence is sufficient to justify a prosecution action is taken.
§ Earl WINTERTONIs the right hon. Gentleman not aware that there is an Act of Parliament?
§ Sir J. GILMOURNo Act of Parliament is of any value unless there is evidence on which action can be taken.
§ Mr. KIRKWOODSeeing that this is an all-powerful Tory Government, could they not abolish the right of free speech?