§ 36. Mr. Biggs-Davisonasked the Attorney-General what report he has received from the Director of Public Prosecutions regarding the possibility of proceedings under Section 2 of the Public Order Act, 1936, against those who, in advance of the demonstrations of Sunday, 12th January, outside Rhodesia House and the South African Embassy, incited students and others to the violent and illegal occupation of the premises of the Rhodesian Mission in the United Kingdom.
§ The Attorney-GeneralPolice inquiries are being made into the possibility of procedings under Section 2 of the Public Order Act, 1936. These have not yet been completed. Criminal proceedings are pending against a number of persons involved in the events of 12th January.
§ Mr. Biggs-DavisonI am much obliged to the right hon. and learned Gentleman. While defending the right of peaceful protest, should we not see, so far as is possible, that those who organise and incite to violence are prosecuted? Will the right hon. and learned Gentleman study some information that has come to my notice?
§ The Attorney-GeneralThese matters are being fully investigated, but, as I have said, a number of proceedings are pending. The matters concerned are sub judice and therefore, in the circumstances, the less comment from me, perhaps, the better.
§ Mr. Alexander W. LyonWould my right hon. and learned Friend consider issuing proceedings against the occupants of Rhodesia House for conduct which was likely to cause a breach of the peace in the hoisting of an illegal flag there?
§ The Attorney-GeneralMy information with regard to that matter—whether it arises from the Question I know not—is that although that flag has no legal validity, there is nothing in our law which makes it an offence to fly it.