HC Deb 06 July 1933 vol 280 cc506-7
53. Sir C. OMAN

asked the Secretary of State for India whether his attention has been drawn to the attribution of alleged outrages to European members of the Calcutta police, whose names are given, as printed in a publication called the Indian Bulletin and published in London; and whether any measures will be taken against those responsible for this publication?

The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for INDIA (Mr. Butler)

I have seen a copy of the article referred to. The allegations contained in it are a repetition of those made in India by Pandit Malaviya, which, as my right hon. Friend has informed the House, the Government of India found on investigation to be false. As regards the second part of the question, the allegations have been contradicted both here and in India, and my right hon. Friend does not propose to take any further action.

Mr. T. WILLIAMS

Why did not the hon. Gentleman's right hon. Friend prosecute those who made the false statements, or why did not his right hon. Friend cause an inquiry to be made?

Mr. BUTLER

I have only said that the allegations which were contained in this document were a repetition of those made by Pandit Malaviya, which have been authoritatively denied both here and in India.

Sir C. OMAN

When public lies, published in a publication in London, have been contradicted, is there no way in which the Secretary of State can stop the repetition of such outrages?

Mr. BUTLER

My right hon. Friend is satisfied that he has taken the correct action on this occasion, and, if a repetition occurs, I am sure he will take the right and proper action.