HC Deb 13 May 1948 vol 450 cc227-8W
2. Mr. Piratin

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he is aware that the Metropolitan Police broke up into several sections the London May Day procession organised by the London Trades Council; and whether he will take steps to investigate the actions of the police in this respect at the Thames Embankment.

Mr. Ede

I have made inquiry and find that the division of this procession into sections was arranged after discussions with the organisers in order to prevent undue delays to traffic along the route. I can find no ground for any action on my part.

4. Mr. Gallacher

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department on whose instructions the names and addresses of coloured and Chinese speakers were taken by the police at a meeting held in Hyde Park on Sunday, 25th April.

Mr. Ede

The regular political speakers are known to the police but when a new political party appears on the scene, it is the practice of the police to ask for the names and addresses of speakers. The practice was followed on this occasion by the constable on duty at the meetingplace.