Mr. John D. TaylorTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many Irish tricolours were flown by demonstrators in central London on Saturday 31 March; what is the estimated extent of participation by Irish immigrants in the demonstration; and if he will make a statement about Irish Republican involvement in the demonstration.
§ Mr. Peter LloydI understand from the Commissioner that it is not known how many Irish tricolours were flown during the anti-community charge demonstration on Saturday in central London nor is it known how many people of Irish origin took part. There was no Irish Republican involvement in the organisation of the demonstration.
§ Mr. MaddenTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will establish an independent judicial inquiry into public disorder in London on 31 March; if he will ensure the terms of reference allow investigation into whether any groups or organisations were responsible for instigating violence; whether policing arrangements were appropriate and whether the march route and rally venue were suitable; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Peter LloydAs my right hon. and learned Friend announced to the House on Monday 2 April at columns 893-94, the Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis is undertaking a review of the events of Saturday 31 March to see what lessons can be learned from what occurred. This will take into account all the arrangements which 801W were made for policing the demonstration. A full criminal investigation is being conducted with a view to identifying offenders from photographs and film and prosecuting them.