§ 65. Mr. K. Robinsonasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department to what extent it is necessary, under his regulations, to seek permission of or to 114W notify the Metropolitan Police prior to to holding of a political meeting in the public highway in the London area; what protection is normally afforded by the police to such meetings of which they have been officially notified; and what general instructions are given to the Metropolitan Police with regard to meetings of which they have not been informed in advance.
§ Mr. R. A. ButlerWhile it is of assistance to the police and to the organisers if prior notification of a meeting is given, the police have no authority to give permission for public meetings to be held on the highway, nor does such notification secure any special rights or privileges. The duties of the police in connection with public meetings, whether prior notification is received or not, are to preserve order and prevent obstruction.