HC Deb 30 May 1932 vol 266 cc808-9
18. Mr. MORGAN JONES

asked the Secretary of State for India whether he is aware that the Bombay Government authorities have demanded double security from the "Bombay Chronicle," under an Emergency Powers Ordinance, in respect of an article in that paper criticising the authorities for neglect in dealing with the recent Bombay riots; and whether, in view of the assurance that action against the Press would only be used to prevent violence and terrorism and not to stifle expressions of public opinion, he will inquire as to the reasons for such action?

Sir S. HOARE

I have no official information, but if the article in question was of the nature stated it might be an offence against Section 63 of the Emergency Powers Ordinance which provides against attempts to bring Government into hatred and contempt. I consider that a malicious attempt to belittle the authority of the Government at a critical moment of communal strife would be tantamount to an incitement to disorder and would fully justify any action which it was legitimate to take.

Mr. JONES

If the right hon. Gentleman has made no inquiries on what ground does he say that the article contained reflections on the Governor?

Sir S. HOARE

Press reports have already been published in this country. If the Press reports are correct, a very gross attack was made on the Governor by this paper. Charges were levelled against the Government of Bombay of being responsible for the communal strife, and in those circumstances it was perfectly legitimate for the Government to put into operation these emergency measures.

Mr. JONES

Will the right hon. Gentleman be good enough to undertake to make inquiries, as the information I have received is that there was no sort of appeal whatever, apart from an appeal to the Government to intervene in the strife?

Sir S. HOARE

Yes, Sir; I will certainly make inquiries.

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