§ 19. Mr. Petherickasked the Minister of Information whether he has considered the article in the "New Times and Ethiopia News," a copy of which has been sent to him, suggesting that Ethiopia was reconquered solely by Ethiopian arms and that an intrigue is in progress by British military authorities to produce a faked plebiscite in certain areas in the country; and if, in view of the prejudicial effect on the Allied war effort, he will take action to stop this propaganda and counteract its effects.
§ 23. Sir Stanley Reedasked the Minister of Information whether he has considered the issue of "New Times and Ethiopian News" of 4th March, 1944, a copy of which has been sent to him, charging the British authorities with a gross breach of faith, intrigues to dismember Ethiopia and a plan for a faked plebiscite by British military authorities in reserved areas; and whether he will cease giving facilities for the publication of this paper.
§ Mr. BrackenI have read the article to which my hon. Friends refer. It is plain that the author is trying to champion Ethiopia by blackening the name of this country. But I think that the record of British military achievement in Ethiopia and of our subsequent dealings with that country can stand up for themselves.
Miss RathboneIs the Minister aware that this paper, whatever its defects, has been a very useful watchdog in the interests of Ethiopia, and that if this particular article is unjustified, the best way to deal with it is to give a definite assurance that no such plebiscite has been arranged or is contemplated?
§ Mr. BrackenI am afraid I cannot agree with the hon. Lady. This paper contains attacks on England which are worthy of Goebbels. It has insulted the British troops who have rescued Ethiopia, and in my opinion it is a poisonous rag.