§ 35. Commander SOUTHBYasked the Home Secretary what steps he is taking to combat seditious and subversive propaganda; and whether there has been any increase in such propaganda during the last six months?
§ Mr. CLYNESThere has, in my opinion, been an increase recently in the volume of certain kinds of propaganda. I cannot say at present what, if any, action may be called for, but the hon. and gallant Member may rest assured that the situation is being carefully watched.
§ Commander SOUTHBYWill the right hon. Gentleman enjoin special vigilance on his Department in view of the proposed transfer of the Communist headquarters from Berlin to London?
§ Mr. CLYNESI have indicated that we have no confirmation of newspaper rumours about such a transfer. I can only now add that this increased propaganda is chiefly in the nature of greater abuse of the Government.
§ Sir K. WOODApart altogether from abuse, has the right hon. Gentleman obtained the advice of the Law Officers as to the recent issues of a certain journal which I suggest require his immediate attention?
§ Mr. CLYNESI cannot announce any precise step which the Government are taking as I am not certain that it would be in the public interest to do so. As I have indicated in my answer, the House may rest assured that the matter is being carefully watched.