HC Deb 28 March 1968 vol 761 cc1698-700
6. Mr. Marten

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what preparations he is making, in the interests of public order, for the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament demonstration in Trafalgar Square over Eastertide.

Mr. Callaghan

This is a matter for the Acting Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis. He tells me that discussions have been held with the organisers of the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament on the arrangements to be made for the meeting in Trafalgar Square and he will have regard to recent experience in formulating his plans.

Mr. Marten

Without in any way wishing to goad the Home Secretary into taking extreme measures such as departing from traditional democratic rights to demonstrate, protest against, and criticise Governments, may I ask whether it would not be preferable if such demonstrations were held in a central part of Hyde Park so as to lessen the damage to property and the risk to people?

Mr. Callaghan

Trafalgar Square is the traditional meeting place. Demonstrations have been held there from time immemorial, before the hon. Gentleman and I were alive, and I dare say they will be held there long after we have gone. I do not want to be put into the position, because of unruly behaviour on one or two occasions, of taking steps to undermine our traditions in this matter.

Mr. Winnick

Is it not a fact that in all the previous C.N.D. demonstrations at Easter there has been no damage to property or to people? Is it not somewhat ironic that, although we welcome demonstrations in Eastern Europe, there are some silly Tory Members here who try to prevent demonstrations from being held in Britain?

Mr. Callaghan

The C.N.D. demonstrations have, to my recollection, been orderly and effective protests.

Dr. Winstanley

Has the Secretary of State's attention been drawn to Early Day Motion No. 214, which is supported by hon. Members of all parties and which calls for a comprehensive inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the recent demonstrations so as to ascertain the special difficulties of crowd control and to recommend procedures to be adopted in future? Would not this be a valuable thing now?

Mr. Callaghan

I read that Early Day Motion and I have had discussions with the police. I do not think that we can debate the Motion. I do not think that the situation is by any means out of hand, nor do I think that the police think so. I would prefer that the Commissioner should continue to handle these problems in his own way, and I shall continue to work with him in ensuring that we keep effective control but do not do more than that.

Mr. Hogg

The right hon. Gentleman's generally liberal and enlightened attitude will be welcomed in all quar- ters of the House. Will he draw to the attention of the hon. Member for Croydon, South (Mr. Winnick) the fact that silliness is not the monopoly of either side?

Mr. Winnick

Try proving it.

Mr. Callaghan

I am aware that there is a third party in the House.