HC Deb 26 July 1933 vol 280 cc2572-3
22. Mr. MANDER

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if his attention has been called to the statement in, the Malta Government Gazette of 7th July, 1933, by the Reverend A. V. Pantalleresco, the director of secondary schools, with reference to the possible revocation of the Royal letters patent of 2nd May, 1932; and whether he is able to give an assurance that no revocation is contemplated?

Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTER

My attention has been drawn to the statement in question by Mr. Pantalleresco. I need hardly say that there is no intention whatever of altering the letters patent of 25th April, 1932.

Mr. MANDER

Will the right hon. Gentleman make it clear to the reverend gentleman in question that he must not repeat statements of this kind?

Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTER

I cannot be responsible for the truth of statements made irresponsibly by either reverend or irrevererld gentlemen, but I can make plain, and have repeatedly made plain, the policy of His Majesty's Government.

Lieut.-Commander BOWER

Could not the right hon. Gentleman make it clear to the Governor of Malta that such pronouncements of a political nature on the part of civil servants are undesirable.

Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTER

I think any pronouncements of a political nature by any civil servants anywhere are most undesirable.