34. Mr. VYVYAN ADAMSasked the Home Secretary whether he will introduce legislation prohibiting the wearing of uniforms by political parties?
§ 35. Mr. WHITESIDEasked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that certain political parties in this country wear distinctive uniforms; and whether, as this procedure has frequently led to disorder in other countries, he proposes to take any action?
§ Sir J. GILMOURI propose to answer these questions together. Representations on this subject have reached me from many quarters. The aspect of the problem which has been causing me most concern is the provocative effect of the wearing of such uniforms in streets and public places and the increasing number of street disorders which have occurred in consequence. The growing danger of public disturbance which the police attribute to the wearing of what may conveniently be called political uniforms is shown by the fact that the Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis reports that in the first six months of 1933 there were in the Metropolitan Police District 11 disturbances of a political character attributed to this cause while in the last six months of the year there have been no less than 22 such disturbances. The whole question is engaging my serious consideration.
§ Mr. RHYS DAVIESIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that some European States have already taken action in this connection?
§ Sir J. GILMOURYes, Sir, it is quite true.
§ Mr. THORNECan the right hon. Gentleman state when he thinks the Government will be able to come to a decision upon this very important question?
§ Mr. MABANEWill the right hon. Gentleman also consider the wearing of foreign political uniforms in this country; and has his attention been drawn to the fact that two uniformed Nazis landed in this country yesterday, and will he see that nothing of the sort occurs again?