§ Mr. Pavittasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what instructions were given to the Metropolitan Police on duty at Charrington's Coal 417W Depot in Neasden, Willesden, West, with regard to the picket line of miners; how many miners have been arrested; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Freesonasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what instructions have been issued to the Metropolitan Police regarding their conduct towards National Union of Mineworkers picketing of coal depots, power stations and other places; in what circumstances five miners were arrested near Charring-ton's Coal Depot in Neasden, London, on Friday, 4th February, and taken into custody at Harlesden Police Station; and if he will make a statement.
Mr. MaudlinThe enforcement of the law in the Metropolitan Police District is the responsibility of the Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis and I have no authority to issue instructions to him on the manner in which the police should deal with picketing.
The commissioner tells me that a number of pickets were present outside the entrance to Charrington's coal centre in Neasden on Friday, 4th February. Five pickets were arrested for obstructing the footway and for obstructing the police. They appeared at Willesden Magistrates Court on Monday, 7th February, and were remanded on bail until 21st February.