§ Mr. Proctorasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will call for a report from the Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis with regard to incidents which took place on the streets of Notting Hill, London, on the evening of Monday 6 December, involving black youths and police officers; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MayhewWe understand from the Commissioner that at about 7.30 pm on 6 December two police officers patrolling in Tavistock Crescent saw four men, two of whom had an iron bar and a claw hammer. The officers initially called for support before further approaching the men, who began to run towards All Saints Road when they became aware that more officers were arriving. The two officers sought to stop the men, and both were assaulted, sustaining facial bruising. The four men escaped into All Saints Road. A large number of people came on to the streets in the area, but did not seek in any way to interfere with the police, including reinforcements who arrived there. Two men were arrested in Colville Square. The area of All Saints Road was quiet by 7.45 pm. A third man was arrested on 7 December, and the three men who had been arrested have been charged with conspiracy to cause grievous bodily harm. They were remanded in custody until 14 December, when they were further so remanded until 21 December.