HC Deb 01 August 1935 vol 304 c2859
77. Mr. PETHERICK

asked the Attorney-General how many prosecutions have so far taken place under the Incitement to Disaffection Act?

The SOLICITOR-GENERAL

There have been no prosecutions under the Incitement to Disaffection Act, 1934.

Mr. BERNAYS

Does not the fact that there have been no prosecutions show how unnecessary was the Act?

The SOLICITOR-GENERAL

No, Sir, it shows nothing of the kind. My right hon. and learned Friend is satisfied that the presence of this Act on the Statute Book has had a very salutary effect.

Mr. PETHERICK

Does it not also show that the agitation against this measure, which was artificially manufactured entirely for political purposes, was absolutely unjustified?

Mr. LAWSON

Does it not show that the time of the House of Commons was wasted?