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Political Meetings (Military Police Action)

Volume 389: debated on Tuesday 4 May 1943

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27.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he will investigate the case in which military police in Daventry, on Sunday, 18th April, prevented soldiers in uniform from listening to a Communist speaker who was speaking in support of the Government candidate; and whether he will take steps to prevent any repetition of this incident?

42.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether his attention has been drawn to the incident that took place on 18th April on the market square in Northampton, when the military police prevented soldiers in uniform from listening to speeches at a public meeting; and whether he has any statement to make?

The case has been investigated. The action taken by the military police was the result of an error of judgment, and steps are being taken to ensure, as far as possible, that such an error does not recur.

As so much confusion seems to exist as to the political rights of soldiers, will the right hon. Gentleman clarify the whole position at some time in the future by allowing soldiers on leave in mufti publicly to discuss what they are fighting for?

I do not think that confusion exists anywhere but in the hon. and gallant Gentleman's mind.