HC Deb 13 March 1940 vol 358 c1209W
Sir P. Hannon

asked the Home Secretary whether he proposes to take immediate action to prevent the holding of meetings at the instance of certain organisations the object of which is to obstruct and embarrass the defence Departments in the provision of man-power for the safety of the realm and effectual prosecution of the war?

Mr. Peake

There is, I believe, no ground for apprehension that such meetings have any appreciable effect on the mobilisation of man-power or on the determination of the people of this country to throw all their strength into the effectual prosecution of the war. As my right hon. Friend has already stated, the activities to which my hon. Friend refers are being closely watched, but if any special measures should be called for I am sure the House would desire to avoid so far as possible interference with the liberty of public meetings.