The Cambridge Riot: February 13Th, 1970
| Author | Bernard E. Hotson |
| Published date | 01 January 1971 |
| Date | 01 January 1971 |
| DOI | http://doi.org/10.1177/0032258X7104400111 |
| Subject Matter | Article |
DET.
SUPT.
BERNARD
E.
HOTSON
Mid
Anglia Constabulary
THE
~AMBBIDGE
RIOT:
FEBRUARY
13tb,
1970
Much has been written about what has become known as "The
Garden House Affair", but, apart from the report which formed the
basis of the prosecution case, this is the first article on the event
setting out a police viewpoint.
In recording the facts as they affected the police, opportunity will
be taken to comment upon the adequacy or otherwise of the present
law and at the same time to express certain of the author's opinions
which
mayor
may not be shared by everyone.
Background
Following the visit of the then Prime Minister, Mr. Harold Wilson,
in 1967, a lucid and factual paper! was prepared by a senior member
of the University for the guidance of all persons who wished to
organise or take part in demonstrations which were to be held in the
streets or in other public places. The paper set out the legal position
and warning was given to all organisers or participants as to the
offences which could be committed and the penalties which might
follow.
It
was made clear that all organisers of demonstrations or
meetings would be well advised to inform the police of their plans
at an early stage and thereafter to work in close co-operation so that
the likelihood of trouble could be reduced to a minimum. The paper
also emphasized the advisability for student organisers to consult
and co-operate with the University Proctors.2
In law, Riot, Affray, Riotous Assembly, Meeting and Procession
are defined, but nowhere is there a legal definition of Demonstration,
which, according to the Concise Oxford Dictionary is "Outward
exhibition of feeling etc; logical proving, clear
proof
(toproveconclus-
ively); thing serving as proof; exhibition and explanation of speci-
mens or experiments as way of teaching; show of military force to
intimidate, to mask other operations, or in peace to show readiness
for war; exhibition or public opinion on political or other question,
esp. public meeting or procession."
It
may be argued
that
the
definition of a Public Meeting is sufficient to cover most Demonstra-
tions, but this thesis is open to serious doubt as situations can be
envisaged which are clearly demonstrations but which do not fall
within the definition of a meeting as covered in either the Public
Until the events of February, 1970, all organisers of demonstra-
tions in Cambridge informed the police of their plans in advance,
and the University Proctors were also kept very much in the picture.
January 1971 61
E*
To continue reading
Request your trial