HC Deb 08 November 1928 vol 222 cc200-1
18. Mr. HORE-BELISHA

asked the Home Secretary whether he proposes to ask Parliament for further powers to deal with undesirable books.

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

No, Sir: not as at present advised.

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

Can the right hon. Gentleman say what his powers are at present, why he is apparently dissatisfied with them, and if he wishes to establish a standard of literature that is only fit for "the least of these little ones"?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

I think perhaps it is better at the moment, as there is a case pending for me to refrain from making any further observations till that case is disposed of.

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

But is the right hon. Gentleman not aware that he has not refrained in the meantime?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

I said I must refrain now.

Mr. SHINWELL

Will the right hon. Gentleman state what are his qualifications to exercise the existing powers when he cannot even make up his mind about the Prayer Book?

Mr. HAYES

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider promoting legislation for abolishing the censorship altogether?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

I am not prepared. What is called the censorship is not a censorship, but certain rights or duties are placed on the Secretary of State by Act of Parliament, and I cannot possibly abolish that without reference to this House.

Mr. SHINWELL

Does the right hon. Gentleman not exercise the existing powers, and what are his qualifications? What right has he to decide whether a book should be circulated?

Mr. SPEAKER

That does not arise on this question.

Mr. SHINWELL

On a point of Order. May I ask if that does not arise on this question? Are we not questioning the exercise of certain powers by the right hon. Gentleman?