§ 27. Sir WILLIAM DAVISONasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether his attention has been called to the numerous articles which have recently appeared in the Russian official Press urging that assistance should be given to the revolutions in progress in India and in Spain, which are stated to be the two vital points at present in world revolution, and urging that the success of Communist plans in British India would deal a fatal blow to Great Britain and would spread revolution throughout Asia; whether these articles have been considered by the special committee set up last year to inquire into and advise the Foreign Secretary in this respect; what advice has been received from the committee; and whether, as the articles constitute a breach of the agreement, he will make a protest to the Soviet. Government or take other action in the matter?
Mr. A. HENDERSONThe policy of His Majesty's Government on this question was stated by the Prime Minister in this House on the 18th May, and the hon. Member may rest assured that all the evidence available—and it is not restricted to Press articles such as those to which he refers—is subjected to constant examination by those competent to advise His Majesty's Government.
§ Sir W. DAVISONWhat is the object of appointing this special committee, which the House was informed was dealing with these matters, if daily articles in the official Russian Press, containing propaganda hostile to this country, are allowed to continue?
Mr. HENDERSONI do not know that their appearing has anything to do with the appointment of the committee. The committee examined very carefully the evidence submitted by the Government and gave a report.
§ Sir W. DAVISONAre the committee now discharged? Do not they deal with Press information any longer?
Mr. HENDERSONThe committee will be called together when I think the matter is of sufficient importance.