§ 22. Commander Sir Archibald Southbyasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether his attention has been called to various pamphlets designed to hamper the national effort to win the war being distributed in the country by the Communist party of Great Britain; and whether he will exercise his powers to prevent their distribution?
§ The Secretary of State for the Home Department (Sir John Anderson)Yes, 2107 Sir, but I would remind my hon. and gallant Friend that by general agreement the Defence Regulations were so drawn as not to interfere with the ordinary propagation of opinions. A close watch is being kept on this kind of activity, and if there is any breach of the law, suitable action will be taken.
§ Sir A. SouthbyDoes my right hon. Friend appreciate that great apprehension exists among all loyal citizens of many political persuasions at the continued efforts being made by this party to interfere with the national effort?
§ Sir J. AndersonI would point out that there may be other methods of dealing with this mischief than by invoking the criminal law.
§ Mr. SorensenWill not the reply of the right hon. Gentleman give more satisfaction than the Supplementary Question of the hon. and gallant Member?
§ Mr. GallacherIs the Minister not aware that these pamphlets represent a great national effort to get rid of this Government?