HC Deb 23 July 1957 vol 574 cc192-3
3. Mr. Collins

asked the Minister of Works why he prohibited the carrying of banners and distribution of literature at the Anglo-Scandinavian Youth Rally in Hyde Park, on Saturday, 13th July.

Mr. Molson

My Department's longstanding policy is to prohibit the free distribution of literature and to limit severely the display of banners in the Royal Parks Experience has shown that this is necessary in order to safeguard users of the park from disturbance.

Mr. Collins

Is the Minister aware that on this occasion the distribution of literature and the exhibition of banners were entirely prohibited and that this gathering of young people from Sweden and Germany were quite shocked to find that this was the case in the modern home of democracy? Will the right hon. Gentleman, therefore, look into the question again, because it is extraordinary that we should give this impression to people from abroad? Will he also give an assurance that under no circumstances will he interfere with the carrying of banners on May Day and similar traditional occasions?

Mr. Molson

The hon. Gentleman will have noticed that there is a certain inconsistency in the practice of my Department. Whereas banners are not allowed on normal occasions, on May Day banners are allowed. I have tried in vain to ascertain the reason for this inconsistency. I can only assume that it is due to an unwillingness to interere with the jamboree of the party opposite on May Day.