HC Deb 20 July 1936 vol 315 cc8-9
10. Mr. MORGAN JONES

asked the Under-Secretary of State for India whether he is aware that the sum of Rs.3,000 taken from the keeper of the Lokasangraha Press, Poona, has been forfeited to the Government of Bombay for his having printed a book six months ago; what was the title of the book; whether that publication had been prohibited at the time or the printer warned; and whether the keeper has any means of appeal against the order of the Government?

Mr. BUTLER

The security of Rs.3,000 deposited by the keeper of the press under Section 5 of the Indian Press (Emergency Powers) Act, 1931, was declared forfeited on the 28th May, 1936, as the press was used for printing matter falling under Clauses (b), (d), (f) and (h) of Section 4 (1) of the Act. I have no information as regards the second and third parts of the question. With regard to the last part, it is open to the keeper of the press to make application to the Bombay High Court, within two months from the date of the order of forfeiture, to set aside the order.

Mr. SORENSEN

Will the hon. Gentleman make further inquiries so as to be able to answer the latter part of my hon. Friend's question?

Mr. BUTLER

My hon. Friend inquires what was the title of the book, and whether the publication had been prohibited at the time or the printer warned.