HC Deb 30 July 1952 vol 504 cc1454-5
7. Mr. Rankin

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he is aware that the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society has been officially banned from carrying on its work in Malaya; and if he will give the reason for the ban.

Mr. Lyttelton

Yes, Sir. The Federation of Malaya have imposed restrictions on the entry of representatives of the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society, as experience there and in other territories has shown that its teachings can be detrimental to public order and security.

Mr. Rankin

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the society is being asked to pack up and leave Malaya altogether and not merely being restricted in its operations?

Mr. Lyttelton

My advice is that the Federation Government found that it was detrimental to public order and security.

Mr. Alport

Is my right hon. Friend aware that the form which this organisation takes in the Colonies is very different from the form it takes in this country and that for many years it has been responsible for the most unscrupulous exploitation of the native peoples in many parts of the world?

Mr. Rankin

The right hon. Gentleman said that the society was merely being restricted in its operations. Is that a fact? Is it not being expelled altogether?

Mr. Lyttelton

I must have notice of the question whether it has been expelled. Its work is certainly being restricted a great deal.