SEDITIOUS BOOKS

Hokitika Guardian, 26 September 1928, Page 1

SEDITIOUS BOOKS

COMMUNIST SECRETARY FINED

(By Telegraph—Press Association)

AUCKLAND, Sept. 25. As a result of a raid by Detectives at his.house, Onehunga, on July 14th.. when a number of hooks were seized, Sidney Scott, aged 28, a student, grocer and Secretary of the Auckland Branch of the Communist Party, was before Mr Hunt, S.M., at the Police Court this morning, on charges of having in his possession, for sale or distribution, books entitled “Elements of Political Education” and “Party Training Manual,” which advocated violence and expressed seditious Intention. He was also charged with importing these hooks. Scott admitted the first and third charges, and pleaded not guilty to the second.

Mr Hubble (Crown, Solicitor) described the book “Elements of Political Education,” a's one of the most vio lent books published. He said that the other book was merely to stir up class hostility. Four of the “Elements” book wore found, and twelve of the “Party Manual.” Counsel for accused said he had rw intention of distributing the books but the Magistrate held he did, and imposed a fine of £5 on the first sdmjrge and he was convicted and ordered to pay costs on the third charge. Decision was reserv'd in the second charge.