HC Deb 15 July 1937 vol 326 cc1455-7
19. Mr. Gallacher

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many policemen were engaged on Sunday, 4th July, clearing a route and clearing Trafalgar Square to allow the Fascists to make a demonstration; and what was the approximate cost of the police mobilisation?

The Secretary of State for the Home Department (Sir Samuel Hoare)

I am informed by the Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis that the total number of police employed in connection with the demonstration was 2,383. The approximate expenditure incurred is not expected to exceed £150, this expenditure being in respect of travelling expenses.

Mr. Gallacher

Is the Minister aware that these provocative demonstrations would not take place if the police did not provide the necessary protection for them; and will he withdraw the police and so put an end to these provocative demonstrations?

Sir S. Hoare

The provocation, unfortunately, comes from both sides.

Mr. Gallacher

No.

Sir S. Hoare

If the hon. Member will restrain his followers, no doubt this kind of protection may not always be necessary.

Mr. Gallacher

Is he not aware that they showed very much restraint on that occasion, and that the masses of the workers generally would not tolerate the provocative demonstrations but for the fact that the police are there to encourage them?

20. Mr. Gallacher

asked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that the route covered by the Fascists in their march to Trafalgar Square was prohibited to the unemployed marchers; that the unemployed marchers were informed that no procession would be allowed to follow this route; and can he explain the reason for this privilege being granted to the Fascists?

Sir S. Hoare

I presume the hon. Member refers to a meeting of the unemployed held in Trafalgar Square on 15th November last which was attended by contingents marching from different parts of London. As regards the contingent from Mornington Crescent, I am informed by the Commissioner of Police that the route followed was the same as that used by the Fascists on 4th July as far as the junction of Hampstead Road and George Street. The Commissioner would have directed the Fascists to follow the same route as the unemployed marchers from that point also, but this course was not possible since Gower Street is under repair and a procession along it would have caused considerable inconvenience. I am satisfied that there has been no discrimination in favour of the Fascists.

Mr. Gallacher

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that when the unemployed

COAL MINERS.
Applications to the Silicosis Medical Board in the six months ended 30th June, 1937, for certificates under the Various Industries (Silicosis) Schemes.
— Number of applications received. Number granted. Number refused or negative, Number awaiting decision.
Death 48 32 14 2
Disablement or suspension 327 130 162 35
Separate particulars for anthracite miners for same period.
Death 23 14 7 2
Disablement 114 56 45 13