HC Deb 06 April 1936 vol 310 cc2427-8
84. Sir W. DAVISON

asked the Home Secretary whether he will instruct the police to see that no demonstrations of any kind are in future held in the vicinity of Thurloe Square, Kensington, seeing that this is a residential neighbourhood with narrow thoroughfares quite unsuited to the holding of public meetings?

Mr. LLOYD

My right hon. Friend has no power to issue any such instructions to the police.

Sir W. DAVISON

Is my hon. Friend aware that the residents of Thurloe Square only desire the peaceful occupation of their homes; and will he see that they have not again to appeal to their Parliamentary representative in order to get protection against violent demonstrators?

Mr. E. SMITH

Has the hon. Gentleman's Department received any further evidence which would warrant a reconsideration of the demand for, a public inquiry into what took place in this square?

Mr. LLOYD

It is the duty of the police to take such precautionary measures as are reasonably necessary in the circumstances to prevent breaches of the peace in the streets and to prevent obstruction of the thoroughfare; but regard must be had, as has already been brought to our notice this afternoon, to the right of free speech in this country.

Sir W. DAVISON

Surely not a right of free speech in a narrow street in a residential locality.