“HYDE PARK CORNER”

Press, Volume CV, Issue 31062, 18 May 1966, Page 25

“HYDE PARK CORNER”

Latimer Square Offered

Citizens using the Avon river precinct should not be continually subjected to individuals or groups wishing to express any opinion or opinions which might be popular or otherwise, the by-laws committee told the City Council.

It was commenting on a letter from the Canterbury Council for Civil Liberties on a complaint from the Committee to Oppose Royal Tours that meeting times and places had been restricted. “It is felt that Latimer square would be a suitable venue for such expressions, but naturally the council’s permission must be obtained so that only one permit is issued for a given time," the committee said. “Copies of all permits granted are minuted to the Police Department so that law and order can be maintained.”

The council agreed with its committee’s views. “A more central position would satisfy everyone who wants to have these open-air discussions,” Cr. R. H. Stillwell said. “Latimer square is too far from the centre of the city.” Cr. L. G. Amos: Would you give them Cathedral square? Cr. Stillwell: Yes.

The only time in the last 10 years that there had been a problem had been with those who opposed the visit of the Queen Mother, Cr. H. P. Smith, the chairman of the committee, said. He thought that citizens who wanted to sit in peace on the riverbanks should be able to do so, “free from any ear-bashing.”