27.
asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he will take powers to prevent the spreading of Communist literature in Mauritius, particularly in schools.
The Governor in Council, under the Importation of Publications (Prohibition) Ordinance, 1953, already has power to prohibit the importation of any publication that is contrary to public interest.
Is my hon. Friend aware that I have in my hand two examples of the pamphlets which are said to be circulated in schools in Mauritius and that there is an attempt to flood the country with Communist propaganda and to step up the number of visits to countries behind the Iron Curtain? Will he look at the matter?
Yes, Sir.
Does the hon. Gentleman feel that the banning of books is a very valuable method? Is it not far better to allow this propaganda to multiply, to let people read it and let its futility become apparent?
That is a very open question.