§ 18. Mr. Thurtleasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he has had an opportunity of making further inquiries into the distribution of Fascist literature in Chatham Dockyard and the fact that this has been permitted by the responsible 384 authorities; and whether he will state the result of such inquiries?
§ Sir S. HoareI have caused most careful inquiries to be made as the result of previous suggestions that Fascist literature was being distributed in Chatham Dockyard; but no evidence has been forthcoming to substantiate these allegations. I can assure the hon. Member that far from permitting the distribution of such literature, or of any other literature of a propagandist nature, within the Dockyard, the authorities are most anxious to prevent it.
§ Mr. ThurtleWas particular inquiry made into the activities of the employé whose name was given to the right hon. Gentleman in confidence by my right hon. and learned Friend the Member for East Bristol (Sir S. Cripps)?
§ Sir S. HoareYes, Sir. I have had two investigations made as the result of the representations made to me, and I can find no evidence of any kind for the accusations that were made.