HC Deb 06 July 1978 vol 953 cc632-3
3. Mr. Brotherton

asked the Secretary Of State for the Home Department what discussions he has had with representatives of the Socialist Workers Party about violence at political meetings.

The Secretary of State for the Home Department (Mr. Merlyn Rees)

None, Sir.

Mr. Brotherton

Bearing in mind that virtually all the political violence in this country comes from parties of the Left, such as the Socialist Workers Party and the National Front, does not the right hon. Gentleman think that it would be a good idea to have representatives of those parties round the table agreeing to eschew violence? After all, both those parties of the Left have much in common with the Tribune Group.

Mr. Rees

If the hon. Gentleman's arithmetic leads him to that conclusion, he must have been educated at a minor public school.

Mr. Frank Allaun

Is it not a fact that last night racialists attacked Asian workers with bricks as they were leaving their factory with such violence that nine of the victims had to be taken to hospital? Surely someone must have made a note of one of the car numbers. Can we expect a police arrest shortly?

Mr. Rees

Last evening there was a fight between workers in two separate factories. I have a report here which tells me that the police are dealing with the matter and investigating it.

Mr. Whitelaw

Does not the hon. Gentleman agree that some of the attacks in the East End of London have been serious? Is it not important that they should be roundly condemned by everyone in public life?

Mr. Rees

I am pleased that that has been said. It accords with the majority view in the House.