HC Deb 27 July 1950 vol 478 cc679-80
34. Brigadier Rayner

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether, in view of the present grave circumstances, he will introduce legislation to give him power to restrain immediately the activities of all subversive elements.

Mr. Ede

I am carefully watching the activities mentioned in the Question and am considering the adequacy of the existing law. Should it appear that this is in any way inadequate, Parliament will be asked to strengthen it.

Mr. Martin Lindsay

Has the Home Secretary seen the headlines in today's "Daily Worker"—"Not a man, not a gun, for America's war. Save Britain's sons"? Does he think that this type of subversive propaganda is helpful at the present time? Does he think that this is the sort of stuff which will sustain the parents of young men who have to fight and die in Korea? [HON. MEMBERS: "Speech."] Surely the right hon. Gentleman can see that the Government will have to tackle this question sooner or later—

Mr. Speaker

This is becoming a speech.

Mr. Lindsay

—and the sooner the better, before more trouble arises.

Mr. Ede

I regret that the hon. and gallant Member should have thought it worth while to give to some headlines that would otherwise have died in obscurity, an unnecessary advertisement.

Brigadier Rayner

As the course of events may be such that subversive elements may suddenly become the best organised and the most vicious Fifth Column with which this country has ever had to contend, will the right hon. Gentleman make very special plans for dealing with the situation on that occasion?

Mr. Ede

I can assure the hon. and gallant Gentleman that the resources of the existing law are very considerable but, should they need reinforcement, I shall certainly ask the House to strengthen them.