36. Mr. Vyvyan Adamsasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware of the ceaseless Nazi propaganda which is being spread among the native population of Tanganyika, of the unsettling results of such propaganda, and of the insecurity felt by British settlers; and whether, since there is no intention of transferring this territory to German sovereignty, he will cause this propaganda to be suppressed?
Mr. M. MacDonaldThe Government of Tanganyika has from time to time received reports to the effect that Nazi propaganda is being spread among the native population but these reports have not stood the test of examination. I have nothing to add to previous statements on the matter.
Mr. AdamsIs my right hon. Friend aware that the phrase "ceaseless propaganda" is part of the actual instructions of the German General von Epp?
Mr. MacDonaldI can only say that we have looked into this matter very carefully and have found no evidence of this propaganda among the natives. If my hon. Friend has any information which he thinks we ought to have I shall be very glad to receive it.
§ Captain Peter MacdonaldIs it not a fact that the broadcasts from the German stations in these territories are propaganda all the time?
Mr. AdamsIs the right hon. Gentleman not aware that precisely the same technique is being followed in the schools as was followed in the Sudetenland and in Danzig?
§ Mr. Benjamin SmithIs not South-west Africa really being permeated with Nazi propaganda? Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that I have evidence that I will gladly give him, from letters which I have received, showing that, in fact, preference is being given to this form of propaganda? If he would like to see these documents I would gladly let him do so.
§ Mr. MacDonaldWhat goes on in South-west Africa is a question for the Government of the Union of South Africa, and not for me.