§ 10. Mr. Priceasked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that German propaganda has been containing stories of atrocities and torture in Palestine said to have been committed by British forces; that these stories are quoted as coming from the Arab centre in London; and whether steps are being taken to counter act this propaganda in Germany?
§ Mr. ButlerYes, Sir. I am aware that numerous mendacious reports have been circulated by various agencies with the intention of giving an entirely false impression of the situation in Palestine and of the actions of British forces there. Talks and news items dealing with the true facts of the situation are appropriately broadcast by the B.B.C. in their English and foreign language broadcasts.
§ Mr. MaxtonCould not the House of Commons have this precise knowledge? When I asked a question of the Colonial Secretary last week, he said he would have to communicate with the High Commissioner.
§ Mr. ButlerI will certainly see that the material from the foreign broadcast is taken down and brought to the attention of the hon. Member.
Mr. McGovernsIs the Under-Secretary aware that these documents are going out to a considerable number of people in this country? Surely we ought to have a complete repudiation of these alleged atrocities while they are being circulated from the centre?
§ Mr. ButlerI understand that my right hon. Friend the Colonial Secretary has repudiated these mendacious reports, and the news items to which I have referred also include a categorical repudiation.