20. Duchess of ATHOLLasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will take suitable steps to prevent the hunger marches, now approaching London, holding meetings in Trafalgar Square or other crowded areas?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for the HOME DEPARTMENT (Sir John Gilmour)The holding of meetings in Trafalgar Square is governed by regulations made by the Commissioners of His Majesty's Works and Public Buildings. Provided that those regulations are complied with, I do not think that it would be desirable to interfere with the holding of meetings in the Square so long as there is no reason to anticipate that disturbances are likely to arise. As regards other crowded areas, while there are in general no special regulations, it is clear that the holding of meetings must be subject to the proceedings being orderly and not likely to lead to a breach of the peace or to obstruct the legitimate activities of other citizens.
§ Mr. DAVID GRENFELLWill the right hon. Gentleman satisfy the apprehensions of the Noble Lady by removing the lions from the Square?
§ Mr. HERBERT WILLIAMSUnder the Sessional Orders can meetings be held in Trafalgar Square while the House is sitting?
§ Sir J. GILMOURThe regulations about meetings in Trafalgar Square are confined to Saturdays, between sunrise and sunset, and Bank Holidays and Sundays.