HC Deb 04 November 1948 vol 457 cc1005-6
11. Mr. Platts-Mills

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he is aware that persons are engaged in the production in Britain of Fascist propaganda designed for distribution in Germany, contrary to the provisions of the Potsdam Agreement to outlaw and eliminate all Nazi and militarist doctrines and propaganda; and whether he will take powers to enable him to prosecute such persons.

Mr. Ede

I am informed by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs that such steps as are possible are taken to prevent the circulation in the British zone in Germany of documents the publication of which in that country would be contrary to the provisions of the Potsdam Agreement which the hon. Member has in mind. Action on my part such as is suggested in the Question is not required by that Agreement.

Mr. Platts-Mills

Whether action is required or not, does the answer mean that we have to allow evilly disposed persons to prepare propaganda in this country for the re-establishment of Nazism in Germany and it is only when it is being distributed in Germany that we can begin to take steps to stop its dissemination?

Mr. Ede

Oh, no, my answer meant exactly what it said. I have not only to have regard to the spread of iniquitous propaganda designed for the spread of Nazism.