HC Deb 13 May 1948 vol 450 cc2256-7
9. Mr. Bramall

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department why no action was taken by the police against people giving the Fascist salute at the meeting at Hertford Road, Dalston, on 1st May, in view of the fact that the Old Street magistrate on 5th December, 1947, held that this action constituted a provocation likely to cause a breach of the peace.

Mr. Ede

It would be improper for me to make any comment on the cause of the disorders at the meeting in question, which are at present the subject of charges before the courts.

Mr. Bramall

Would my right hon. Friend say whether any general instructions have been given to the police about this practice of giving the Fascist salute at public meetings?

Mr. Ede

No. That might disclose evidence which may be tendered. At the present time I should prefer to say nothing until a decision has been reached on the cases pending.