HC Deb 20 February 1934 vol 286 cc174-5
36. Earl WINTERTON

asked the Home Secretary if his attention has been called to the fact that small groups of persons have, in recent years, organised actual and attempted demonstrations in pursuance of their political views in front of various embassies and legations in London; and whether, to avoid the wrong impression thus created in foreign countries and the discourtesy shown to representatives of friendly Powers, he will introduce legislation making the organisation of, or participation in, such demonstrations illegal?

Sir J. GILMOUR

I am aware of the circumstances to which my noble Friend refers. I am informed, however, by the Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis that the police have not hitherto experienced any special difficulties in dealing with demonstrations of the kind referred to under the provisions of the existing law.

Earl WINTERTON

Will the right hon. Gentleman say, if that is so, why it is that no prosecutions have followed, except in cases where there have been assaults on the police, because of the grave discourtesy which has been shown to foreign representatives. Why have not these people been prosecuted, if the police are able to deal with the situation?

Sir J. GILMOUR

I think that the general effort of the police is to keep any demonstrations of this kind under restraint, and, as far as I know, the police have taken such action as is within their power in dealing with this problem, but the matter will be kept under close observation.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this is still a free country?