the Old Bailey. Four black youths, Frank Sweeney, Howard Haughton, Ranny Dufeal, and Christopher John Aitcheson are charged with offences involving the police attack on the Metro Youth Club on 24 May, 1971. ILEA CLOSES CLUB The attack on the Metro was part of the State's attempt to smash the social and political organisation of blacks. The ILEA have always been in a dilemma about closing the club, and have now reversed a former decision by closing it. They were dissatisfied with the elected club committee, and were unable to find any 'responsible" scabs or 'Uncle Toms' to run the club against the aspirations of its members.
Further information on the club and the trial can be obtained from "Backayard". 301 Portobello Road, or via. Notting Hill IMG.
ILEA youth leader hands over keys to Metro Collective: but then the club is closed down. Ford emphasised to Widgery that the operation was carefully considered "for a fortnight or more before". This may explain the hints which got into the press, e.g. The Guardian report that. "there will still be the Bogside to flush out and that could be a very bloody operation" (17 January); or the New Statesman report that. "Catholics in Free Derry'....expect what they call "the big push' soon. This will be,