§ 12. Captain FOXCROFTasked the Home Secretary whether he has had brought to his notice a pamphlet recently printed in this country accusing the British gunboats "Cockchafer" and "Widgeon," and the armoured British merchantman "Kiawo," of wholesale and wanton destruction of life and property at Wanhsien on 5th September; and whether he proposes to proceed against the authors or publishers of such statements?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSMy attention has been drawn to this document. I regret that it appears not to be possible to take any proceedings against the printers or publishers. The authors are abroad.
§ Captain FOXCROFTDoes the right hon. Gentleman not think that taking action would lead to a repetition of the very disgraceful libel upon our sailors, who are unable to defend themselves?
§ Mr. LANSBURYWill the Home Secretary make representations to the Foreign Secretary that he should publish papers showing what, in the view of the Government, are the true facts?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSI am sure my right hon. Friend's only desire is to give the true facts. I agree that this paper contained a detestable libel on the action of the British Navy, and if it were possible I would take proceedings.
§ Captain FOXCROFTDoes the right hon. Gentleman think it will be possible to take steps to obtain powers to deal with these matters and do something to stop them?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSThere are many considerations which I have to bear in mind, and one is that I think a prosecution in this case would do more harm than good, because this pamphlet has not been seen by a good many people.
§ Mr. THURTLEWill the right hon. Gentleman represent to the Foreign Secretary that diplomacy by gun-boats is apt to lead to misrepresentations of this kind?