HC Deb 25 April 1940 vol 360 c367
59. Mr. Hammersley

asked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been drawn to the proposal that the Willesden Borough Council should permit the Communist party to use the Willesden schools for the purpose of propaganda; and whether, having regard to the likelihood of breaches of the peace, he will prohibit any such permission?

Sir J. Anderson

I understand that school premises in this district have recently been used for Communist meetings, but the meetings attracted little or no interest and no breaches of the peace occurred. The letting of the premises for this purpose is a matter within the discretion of the local authority, and I have no power to interfere.

Mr. Hammersley

Having regard to the fact that the Communist party is in fact an agent for a foreign Power, will not my right hon. Friend favourably consider making the Communist party an illegal organisation, so that this matter can be dealt with?

Sir J. Anderson

I have indicated that consideration is being given to the general aspect of the question of which this is a particular part.