HC Deb 03 August 1939 vol 350 cc2607-8
39. Mr. E. Smith

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he has considered the copy sent to him of a Memorandum prepared by the Economic League on German propaganda in Great Britain, and similar statements made by many others; and what action is it intended to take?

The Secretary of State for the Home Department (Sir Samuel Hoare)

I have seen the Memorandum and, as I have stated in reply to previous questions, a close watch is maintained upon all such activities as these described in the Memorandum. The action to be taken necessarily varies according to different circumstances. There are some forms of anti-British propaganda with which it is unnecessary to interfere, since the only effect that they have is the opposite to what their authors intend.

Mr. Smith

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that certain lords and other people in high places are associated with this propaganda; and is he further aware that members of the Cabinet are aware that money is being sent from certain countries to this country, in order to stir up internal strife; and in view of that fact will the right hon. Gentleman take more energetic action in the near future than he has done in the past?

Sir S. Hoare

I think my answer to all those three questions is "No." Certainly the answer to the first one is "No." In answer to the second, I would say that we are aware of these activities, and when we think fit to intervene we do intervene. My own view is that most of this propaganda is so fantastic, irresponsible and foolish that it does others much more harm than it does here?

Mr. Gallacher

Is the Minister keeping an eye on the fifth column in this House.