HC Deb 14 July 1952 vol 503 cc1787-8
13. Miss Ward

asked the Attorney-General whether, in view of the recent visit of the Dean of Canterbury to the Far East and of his accusations abroad and in this country prejudicial to the interests of Her Majesty's subjects, he has considered prosecuting him on a charge of treason for spreading enemy propaganda.

The Attorney-General

In my opinion the evidence available does not disclose a prima facie case of treason.

Miss Ward

Would my hon. and learned Friend bear in mind that if such action were taken it would provide an invaluable opportunity of proving the falsity of the evidence of this wicked and irresponsible old man?

The Attorney-General

My decision has had to be based on the unfortunate fact that it will not provide such an opportunity.

Mr. Emrys Hughes

In the event of this witch hunt succeeding, will the Dean be hanged at Tynemouth or Canterbury?

Major Legge-Bourke

Before he took the decision announced in answer to the Question, did my hon. and learned Friend consider the report which appeared in the Press this morning regarding some of the statements that the Dean apparently made in China or since he came home?

The Attorney-General

I have considered all the evidence so far put before me, but if my hon. and gallant Friend or anyone else has any further evidence he would like to put before me I will consider it.

Mr. Snow

Will the hon. and learned Gentleman remember the humiliations to which the last eminent person who called a priest "turbulent" was subjected?