Mr. ERSKINE (by Private Notice)asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that a leaflet, which purports to emanate from the Executive Committee of the Communist party of Great Britain, containing matter prejudicial to discipline and likely to incite to mutiny, has been widely distributed recently amongst the troops of the British Army of the Rhine, and whether he will take steps to have a thorough investigation made into the source of this document and its method of circulation.
§ Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANSThe General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the British Army of the Rhine has reported that copies of the leaflet in question were found in certain barracks occupied by troops of the Army of Occupation. Investigations are being made.
§ Mr. MACKINDER:Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that it is common knowledge inVienna-[Interruption.]I will repeat my question if it amuses hon. Member's. Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that it is common knowledge in Vienna—[Interruption.]
§ Mr. SPEAKERrose—
§ Mr. KIRKWOODIt is not fair?
§ Mr. SPEAKERIf the hon. Member will address me, I will see that he is heard.
§ Mr. MACKINDER:Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that it is common knowledge in Vienna that all kinds of forgeries can be bought, and are bought by all Embassies, with the certain knowledge that 19 out of 20 are forgeries?
§ Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANSNo, Sir, I am not aware of that.