HC Deb 13 June 1932 vol 267 cc4-5
11. Mr. LEWIS

asked the Secretary of State for India whether he will consider the advisability of instituting a strict censorship of the vernacular Press throughout India with a view to the prevention of the publication of articles of the nature calculated to lead to disorder and bloodshed?

Sir S. HOARE

The powers given by the Indian Press (Emergency Powers) Act, as amended by the Emergency Powers Ordinance, are adequate for this purpose, and the necessary action is taken under these powers whenever a newspaper offends in the manner indicated.

Mr. LEWIS

Am I to understand that my right hon. Friend is satisfied with the kind of publications that are getting into these papers to-day?

Sir S. HOARE

No. I am not sure that I am satisfied with the publications either in India or in any other country, but I am satisfied that we have sufficient powers to deal with the repression of civil disobedience so far as the Press is concerned.