§ 8. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYasked the Home Secretary how many prosecutions for the publication or sale of indecent books and literature have been instituted during the last three years; how many were successful; and how many prosecutions for this offence have been instituted during his present term of office?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSI regret that I cannot give complete information for the whole country. This could only be obtained by inquiry of all the police forces. But during the years 1923–4–5 there have been 46 prosecutions in connection with obscene literature, etc., of which there is a record in the Home Office, and nine of these have been instituted during my present term of office. Thirty-three of the prosecutions were in respect of the use of the Post Office for the transmission of indecent books, etc., and 13 in respect of publishing, selling, exposing or advertising indecent books, pictures or articles in this country. Only three of the prosecutions were unsuccessful.
§ Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHYCan we rely upon the right hon. Gentleman vigorously pursuing these prosecutions wherever it is necessary?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSMy hon. and gallant Friend can rely upon me doing my very best in all circumstances.