Harold Wilson was attacked at Slough Technical School in 1966 when a schoolboy threw a glass‑phial stink bomb that struck him in the right eye, causing a painful but non‑serious acid burn.
The 1966 Attack on Prime Minister Harold Wilson at Slough Technical School
A clear, one‑page account suitable for local‑history use
On a campaign visit during the 1966 General Election, Prime Minister Harold Wilson travelled to Slough Technical School (now Herschel Grammar, Northampton Avenue) to deliver a speech to pupils and staff. The visit was intended as a routine election stop, and Wilson spoke for around 45 minutes to a packed assembly hall.
The Incident
As Wilson concluded his speech and prepared to leave the stage, a schoolboy threw a glass stink bomb, striking the Prime Minister directly in the right eye. Witnesses reported a sharp shattering sound as the small glass phial broke on impact, releasing a strong smell of bad eggs—typical of sulphur‑based stink bombs of the period. Wilson immediately clutched his eye and exclaimed: “What hit me? My eye hurts.”
Injuries and Medical Treatment
The liquid from the phial entered Wilson’s eye, causing inflammation, soreness, and an acid burn on the white of the eye, according to Dr Arthur Smith, who treated him shortly afterwards. The injury was painful but assessed as not serious, and Wilson was given eye drops and pain‑relief tablets. He left the school quickly, holding a handkerchief to his face, and returned to Downing Street rather than continuing the visit.
Wilson later reassured reporters: “My eye is sore and smarting. But it will be alright in a couple of days. I’ll survive…”
Police Response and Outcomes
Slough police identified two 15‑year‑old boys involved in the incident. Both were interviewed at the police station in the presence of their parents. Wilson himself requested that no charges be brought, and the boys instead received a severe caution. Inspector Frank Wilson confirmed that the case was closed at the Prime Minister’s request.
Displaying characteristic humour, Wilson remarked that the boy responsible had such good aim that “he ought to be in the England cricket team – and he should stick to the cricket ball.”
Aftermath
The incident did not derail the election campaign. The General Election of 31 March 1966 delivered Wilson a much‑increased majority of 96 seats, strengthening his political position despite the unexpected drama in Slough.
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