§ Mr. Bob RussellTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what powers he has to act against individuals distributing(a) leaflets and (b) other items to those in vehicles on the highway. [41792]
§ Mr. MichaelThe situation described would be an operational matter for the police. Police officers could deal with it by a verbal warning and moving those distributing the material from the roadway. Alternatively, if they thought it appropriate, they could charge the offenders under a number of different statutes ranging from those concerned with obstruction of the highway to possible public order offences. The offences charged would depend on the precise circumstances of the incident.