56. Mr. V. ADAMSasked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been drawn to the various military activities of the so-called British Fascists and, in particular, their possession of armoured cars; and what action he proposes to take?
§ Sir J. GILMOURThe Unlawful Drilling Act, 1819, prohibits unauthorised meetings and assemblies of persons for the purpose of training or drilling themselves, or for the purpose of practising military exercise, movements or evolutions, and I have no reason to suppose that appropriate action would not be 361 taken under that Act should occasion arise. As regards the use of armoured cars, I understand that one of the Fascist organisations has recently purchased specially constructed motor vans for the conveyance of speakers to and from meetings. In reply to the second part of the question, the position is being and will continue to be carefully watched with a view to dealing appropriately with any undesirable developments which might arise.
Mr. ADAMSIs not their persistent talk about dictatorship, and so on, a seditious threat to our democratic liberties?
§ Mr. MORGAN JONESIs not the possession of this kind of implement illegal?
§ Sir J. GILMOURI do not know what the hon. Gentleman means by "implement." As far as I am aware, there is no question of armoured cars in the sense of carrying arms.
§ Mr. WHITESIDEWill the right hon. Gentleman take steps to see that no political body wears uniform, as it is liable to lead to breaches of the peace?