§ 3. Mr. T. Williamsasked the Under-Secretary of State for India why a book entitled "The Theory and Practice of Socialism," by John Strachey, a former Member of this House, is prohibited from entry into India; and whether, as a similar prohibition in regard to Burma has recently been lifted by the Council of Ministers in Burma, he will instruct the Government of India to rescind prohibitory orders on this book and other similar publications?
Lord StanleyThis book is held by the Indian authorities to fall within the scope of the general notification of the Government of India dated 10th September, 1932, prohibiting the entry of Communist literature into India. The action taken in Burma does not affect the position in India in regard to the exclusion of Communist literature and my Noble Friend is not prepared to issue any instructions in the matter.
§ Mr. WilliamsAs the ban has been lifted in Burma does not the Noble Lord think it ought to be lifted in India?
Lord StanleyI think that the Government of India have as much right to their own opinion as the Government of Burma.