72. Mr. Edward M. Taylorasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what was the cost to public funds of providing the means and manpower to maintain order and minimise public inconvenience during weekends in London in the year ended 7th July, 1968, as a consequence of protest marches and other demonstrations.
§ Mr. Elystan MorganThe pay and transport costs of officers required for a176W major demonstration are of the order of £2,500, mostly for pay which would in any event be incurred. In addition, there are other costs, for example for refreshment, and for damage and loss of clothing and equipment. These additional costs cannot be calculated precisely without undue research. There were six major demonstrations during the year, and 41 smaller ones.
Mr. Edward M. Taylorasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will ban any further demonstrations and protest marches in London until suitable arrangements can be made for such activities to take place without violence or inconvenience to the general public.
§ Mr. Elystan MorganNo.
Mr. Edward M. Taylorasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many arrests of demonstrators and spectators at demonstrations were made in London during the year ended 7th July, 1968.
§ Mr. Elystan MorganThere were 369 arrests of demonstrators in the Metropolitan Police District and 50 in the City of London.