HC Deb 22 July 1941 vol 373 cc766-7
12. Mr. Gallacher

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that, on the evening of 12th July, military police were moving on soldiers who attempted to stop and listen to an orderly meeting in advocacy of Anglo-Soviet unity, held by the Communist party in Cheltenham; and whether, in view of the fact that soldiers are entitled to attend such meetings so long as they play no active part in them, he will cause the local military authorities to be informed of the soldiers' rights, under the King's Regulations, with a view to stopping any further infringement of the men's rights?

Captain Margesson

I have called for a report on this case and will communicate with the hon. Member as soon possible.

Mr. Gallacher

Is the Minister aware that several soldiers, one of them claiming to be a Conservative, have protested very strongly against the treatment they received at this meeting by the military police, who explained they were acting under King's Regulations?

Captain Margesson

I have called for a report to check up those facts.