26. Mr. G. MURRAYasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether his attention has been drawn to the seditious doctrines taught in the proletarian Sunday schools, which undermine the youth and adults of this country by the teaching of revolution, rebellion to the Crown, and such teachings as that Christ is a failure; whether there is any legislation under which these schools may be closed; and, if not, whether the Government will consider the desirability of introducing legislation which will enable them to do so and abolish this source of danger to the Constitution?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for the HOME DEPARTMENT (Mr. Shortt)My attention has been drawn to the existence of such schools. There is no power to close them, and I am afraid I cannot hold out any hope that legislation will be undertaken.
§ Colonel WEDGWOODIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that in these schools ethical doctrines are taught as sound as any doctrine could be?
Mr. MURRAYIn view of the teaching in these schools, does the right hon. Gentleman not think it is important to have a special branch of the police to deal with them?
§ Mr. W. THORNEIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that one of the songs sung in these Sunday schools is, "England, arise!"
§ Mr. SHORTTI am not aware of that.
§ Mr. SPEAKERThese bits of information had better be given outside.