HC Deb 02 June 1930 vol 239 cc1749-50
20. Sir WILLIAM DAVISON

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether his attention has been drawn to a report of the Sixth Congress of the Communist International, which has recently been published by the Soviet State Publishing Department in Moscow, giving particulars of the active part taken by agents of the Third International in fomenting unrest in India, which is described as the most vulnerable spot from which a mortal blow can be delivered at British Imperialism; and whether he proposes to bring such instances of admitted hostile propaganda to the notice of the Soviet Government?

Mr. A. HENDERSON

I have nothing to add to the answer which I gave to a similar question by the hon. Member on Monday last.

Sir W. DAVISON

Can the right hon. Gentleman say why the authorities never have information on these important points? Is he aware that some 10,000 copies of this document were printed, and cannot he ascertain something about it from the British Ambassador in Moscow?

Mr. HENDERSON

It does not always follow that we have not the information, but there are certain practices which have to be followed that have grown up as a result of experience in dealing with other countries. We have to exercise a certain discretion.

Earl WINTERTON

Is the right hon. Gentleman in receipt of the communiques which are published by the Government of India on the subject of the North West Frontier Provinces? Are they communicated to him from time to time by the Secretary of State for India?

Mr. HENDERSON

The right hon. Gentleman had better give me notice of that question.

Earl WINTERTON

I will give the right hon. Gentleman notice, and I will raise the matter on the Adjournment this evening.

Sir W. DAVISON

rose

Mr. SPEAKER

It has already been announced that this matter is to be raised on the Adjournment.

Earl WINTERTON

I shall raise it on the Adjournment.