HC Deb 17 January 1972 vol 829 cc20-1
27. Mr. Frank Allaun

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make a statement on the inquiry which has been held into the use of airport police dogs during an industrial dispute at London Airport.

Mr. Anthony Grant

The British Airports Authority has now invited Mr. P. J. Matthews, the Chief Constable of Surrey, to carry out this inquiry.

Mr. Allaun

It is a long time a-coming. Has the Minister noted that, last month, the Home Secretary told me that it would be contrary to the normal practice to use dogs at industrial or political meetings? Will he give an assurance that it will not be repeated, in view of its provocative effect, at London Airport or at any establishment or premises under his control?

Mr. Grant

At this stage, I have nothing to add to what my right hon. Friend the Home Secretary told the hon. Member.

Mr. Molloy

But will the hon. Gentleman recognise that this is an extremely serious affair, and that no previous incident has ever brought such bitterness as that which arose on the occasion to which the Question refers? It was an orderly meeting, a proper and normal protest meeting, which was exacerbated by the vicious business of letting loose dogs on protesting working men. [HON. MEMBERS: "Nonsense."] Will the hon. Gentleman speed up the inquiry, and will he make sure that those responsible do not behave in such a way again?

Mr. Grant

These are all matters which Mr. Matthews will, no doubt, look into with extreme care.