HC Deb 25 October 1932 vol 269 cc811-2
43. Colonel GRETTON

asked the Home Secretary what action he is taking in regard to Communist organisations promoting disorder in this country?

Sir J. GILMOUR

Persons who commit offences, whether members of such organisations or not, can be and are dealt with under the ordinary law as occasion arises, if evidence is available to support a prosecution.

Colonel GRETTON

Is my right hon. Friend satisfied that the ordinary law now in operation is sufficient to deal with the kind of disorders to which he referred in his speech on Wednesday last?

Viscountess ASTOR

Before the right hon. Gentleman answers that question, may I ask: Does he not think that when these Communist men are on the march it would be wise to close the public houses in the neighbourhood?

Sir J. GILMOUR

That question hardly arises. As to the supplementary question put by the right hon. and gallant Gentleman the Member for Burton (Colonel Gretton), as at present advised, I think that the existing law is sufficient for my purpose, but should it be found necessary to do so, I shall not hesitate to ask Parliament for further powers.

Mr. MAXTON

Was the right hon. Gentleman responsible for the concentration of 2,000 police yesterday at the County Hall to receive a deputation of six unemployed?

Mr. KIRKWOOD

rose—

Mr. MAXTON

I should like an answer to my question.

Sir J. GILMOUR

Of course, I am responsible for maintaining law and order, and, in that discretion, I have to take what I think are adequate steps.

Mr. MAXTON

Does the right hon. Gentleman think that 2,000 was an adequate number to deal with six?

Mr. KIRKWOOD

Arising out of the original reply and the statement that these disturbances have been caused by a Communist organisation, is the Minister not aware that all these disturbances are being caused because the workers are being starved in the midst of plenty?

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