HC Deb 31 October 1946 vol 428 c783
62. Mr. Austin

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what steps he proposes to take to prevent further breaches of the peace occasioned by the multifarious activities of Sir Oswald Mosley and those associated with him, particularly with reference to anti-sectarian incitement at book club meetings.

Mr. Ede

It is the duty of the police to take every possible step, within the limits of their resources, to prevent all breaches of the peace, and the police will take appropriate action wherever there is evidence of incitements to commit breaches of the peace.

Mr. Austin

Is the Minister not aware that the doctrine of Fascism is so completely anathema to the British people that any meeting of any character under the auspices of Sir Oswald Mosley is bound to occasion a breach of the peace? I earnestly ask whether he will not look into this before it becomes a threat.

Mr. Ede

Oh, no, Sir. I believe the British people have a far greater sense of proportion than that.

Mr. Austin

In view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I will raise this matter on the Adjournment.