HC Deb 24 July 1930 vol 241 cc2378-9
15. Sir A. POWNALL

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether his attention has been called to the seditious literature being circulated by the Workers' Welfare League of India from an address in London; and what action he proposes to take in the matter?

The SECRETARY of STATE for the HOME DEPARTMENT (Mr. Clynes)

I have seen specimens of the literature issued by this organisation, but as at present advised I do not think action in regard to it is called for. If the hon. Member has in mind any particular publication which appears to require special attention, I should be obliged if we would send it to me

Sir A. POWNALL

Will the right hon. Gentleman send the literature which he has already seen to the machinery which has been set up in connection with propaganda from Russia?

Mr. CLYNES

I think that the question of the hon. Gentleman is not seriously meant.

Mr. BECKETT

Has the attention of the Public Prosecutor been called to an organ called "The Patriot," which in every issue is trying to involve this country in trouble?

Mr. SPEAKER

That matter does not arise out of this question.

Captain CAZALET

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether this literature is published in England or not?

Mr. CLYNES

I can only repeat that on the advice I have received I have seen no cause to take action in this particular case, but, if there be any special instances, I shall be glad to receive them. On the point as to where it is published, I should require notice.

19. Sir K. WOOD

asked the Home Secretary the number of cases concerning seditious and subversive publications he has submitted to the Director of Public Prosecutions during the last 12 months?

Mr. CLYNES

Such publications are brought to the notice of the Director of Public Prosecutions by myself or by others if it seems likely that the matter they contain may justify and necessitate proceedings, but I cannot undertake to give statistical information as to communications of this kind with the Director.

Sir K. WOOD

Can the right hon. Gentleman state whether the publication of 1st May in the "Daily Worker" was submitted to the director?

Mr. CLYNES

I cannot, without notice.

Mr. MARJORIBANKS

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether any of these cases have been discussed by the Cabinet?

Mr. CLYNES

None.