§ 39. Mr. CHATERasked the Home Secretary whether he is aware of the methods of annoyance and persecution employed by Fascist organisations towards Jewish shopkeepers in the borough of Bethnal Green; and whether he will instruct the police to take any preventive steps?
§ Sir J. SIMONYes, Sir. This matter is engaging my close attention in consultation with the Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis. While this class of offence may be difficult to detect and to bring home to offenders, it is intolerable that any section of the population should be subjected to these methods, and the hon. Member may be assured that the police will take every possible step to put a stop to them in this country.
§ Mr. WATKINSMay I take it that the reply applies not merely to Bethnal Green but to the whole of London, and to Hackney in particular?
§ Sir J. SIMONIt is a general principle.