HC Deb 18 February 1971 vol 811 c2111
27. Sir D. Walker-Smith

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what consideration he has given to the need for clarifying and simplifying the law relating to public order; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Maudling

I have nothing at present to add to the reply given to a Question by my right hon. and learned Friend on 5th November.—[Vol. 805, c. 411–12.]

Sir D. Walker-Smith

Is my right hon. Friend aware that the Society of Conservative Lawyers, after exhaustive analysis and the cataloguing of statutory provisions on this subject, concluded that these provisions were scattered, diverse, and in many cases archaic and lacking in clarity, and urged simplification and clarification? Would he reconsider the matter in the light of that recommendation?

Mr. Maudling

I am well aware of the report, and that is why we are considering these points.