§ 46. Major HUNTasked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the fact that M. Litvinoff is advocating a revolutionary movement in this country, he can now say whether he will be prosecuted or interned?
§ Lord R. CECILMy right hon. Friend asks me to answer this question. I have nothing to add to the reply given by the Home Secretary on the 14th instant to the hon. Member for Hertford, and to the reply given yesterday to the hon. Member.
§ Major HUNTIs it the fact that M. Litvinoff has sent round a document, signed by himself, to the trade unions, advocating revolution, and stating that a 608 social revolution is absolutely necessary if a lasting peace is to be secured, and is that sort of thing to be allowed in the case of an alien when it is not allowed in. the case of any of our own people?
§ Lord R. CECILI am afraid I can only repeat the answer I have given. I really have nothing to add to what I have-already said on the subject, that the matter is being considered.
§ Mr. BUTCHERWill my right hon. Friend say whether M. Litvinoff can claim protection on the ground that he is an accredited agent of the Russian Government, and is he, in fact, so accredited?
§ Lord R. CECILNo, Sir; I think not.
§ Mr. BILLINGWill the Noble Lord say whether the Government or the Foreign. Office have any particular reason for affording this man protection to enable him to make speeches in this country,, and whether he is to be permitted to pursue this course before the Government does take action?
§ Lord R. CECILI can only say again. that the matter is receiving consideration.
§ Mr. BILLINGWill the Noble Lord say that the Government will not permit him to make any further speeches until they have arrived at a decision, provided that it is during the War?
§ Mr. D. MASONWill the right hon. Gentleman inform the House whether or not the gentleman referred to does make revolutionary speeches?