HC Deb 27 June 1934 vol 291 cc1121-3
32. Mr. THORNE

asked the Home Secretary whether any disturbance has been caused in Stratford Road, Birmingham, by the bugle-blowing and military manoeuvres by the Birmingham branch of the British Union of Fascists; and whether this practice is to be allowed to continue?

Sir J. GILMOUR

I have made inquiry and am informed by the Chief Constable of Birmingham that the Union Jack is lowered and the "Retreat" sounded at evening at the Fascist Headquarters in that city, but that no disturbance has been occasioned thereby.

Mr. THORNE

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether the Government do not now recognise that the chief military commander of this organisation is issuing a direct challenge to the Government; whether he is not aware that the Government have the power, if they have the will to deal with it; and whether he is not aware that there is an Act of Parliament which got the late William Cobbett down and sentenced him to two years' imprisonment and a fine of £1,000, and that the Government have that power now?

Mr. MACQUISTEN

Are the Fascists the only people who blow their own trumpets?

34. Mr. THORNE

asked the Home Secretary whether he has received a report from the superintendent of the Bristol police in connection with the disturbance that took place at Bristol on Friday, 22nd June; the number of persons arrested; and how many were injured?

Sir J. GILMOUR

Yes, Sir; I have obtained a report from the Chief Constable of Bristol, who informs me that an open-air meeting of the local branch of the British Union of Fascists was held in that city on the 22nd instant. At the conclusion of the meeting, hostile elements in the crowd assaulted the Fascists as they were marching away. The police intervened and arrested nine persons, who were brought before the courts on the following day on charges of disorderly conduct, assaulting and obstructing the police. An improvised knuckle duster was found on one of the persons arrested. So far as the police are aware, only one person was injured; he was taken to the local infirmary and after receiving treatment for bruises was allowed to go home.

Mr. THORNE

Has the chief constable indicated whether any Fascists were arrested?

Sir J. GILMOUR

The police do not state whether people are Fascists or otherwise.

Mr. MAQUISTEN

What is this sinister interest in the Fascist Movement?