Public Disorder (NUS Rally) Debate

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Department: Ministry of Justice

Public Disorder (NUS Rally)

Baroness Bray of Coln Excerpts
Thursday 11th November 2010

(14 years, 1 month ago)

Commons Chamber
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Lord Herbert of South Downs Portrait Nick Herbert
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I understand that the president of the NUS has condemned the actions of this minority in the clearest possible terms. There was obviously a failure on the part of the NUS to assess properly the number of people who would be taking part in its march. That is one of the matters that needs to be reviewed by the Metropolitan police, who have previously had very good relations with the NUS on issues of this kind.

Baroness Bray of Coln Portrait Angie Bray (Ealing Central and Acton) (Con)
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Does the Minister agree that certain remarks “twittered” to the wider world about the fact that the violent rioting might be due to Government policy are not only unacceptable but highly irresponsible?

Lord Herbert of South Downs Portrait Nick Herbert
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I do agree with my hon. Friend. There is no justification for resorting to violence, intimidation or criminal damage. Whatever the disagreements with policy, there are proper democratic means of expressing that disagreement, including peaceful protest.