§ 29. Mr. J. HALLasked the Home Secretary what measures he contemplates taking to prevent members of the British Union of Fascists from intimidating persons attempting to purchase goods at Jewish shops or stalls?
§ Sir J. SIMONThe Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis informs me that the police are paying special attention to this matter.
§ Mr. HALLIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that since I placed this question on the Order Paper there has been a development of the intimidation, that shopkeepers and stallholders have been assaulted, beards of old men have been pulled and people's hats have been crushed on their heads, and that, although in one case the police were called by the blowing of police whistles, they allowed the man who was responsible for the assault to go? May I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether he would be prepared to take such action as would prevent the Jewish people being goaded into retaliation, and put down this insensate persecution?
§ Sir J. SIMONIf the hon. Gentleman has special information, apart from the general information, I should be very glad to have it. Of course, I desire to do everything possible, and so does the Commissioner, in the direction suggested.
§ Sir J. SIMONCertainly.
§ Sir PERCY HARRISIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that circulars have been broadcast calling on people to boycott all Jewish traders, and may I send him a copy of one?
Mr. VYVYAN ADAMSHas the right hon. Gentleman in reserve the possibility of banning political uniforms?