KRAVCHENKO ACTION

Press, Volume LXXXV, Issue 25742, 2 March 1949, Page 5

KRAVCHENKO ACTION

DEAN OF CANTERBURY GIVES EVIDENCE

PARIS, February 28. The Dean of Canterbury (Dr. Hewlett Johnson), giving evidence in the “I Chose Freedom” libel suit in Paris, said he did not believe that Victor Kravchenko’s book was substantiated by the facts, which he had studied since 1917. Dean Johnson said there was complete freedom of religion in Russia. He added: “The clergy of Russia are free to select their officers. There is complete equality of religion. There is State assistance in material nteds of the churches.” The Dean said he had had a talk with Mr Stalin, and that he regarded Kravchenko’s book “a grotesque and ridiculous caricature of Stalin.” Dr. Johnson, who was called by the defence (“Les Lettres Ffancaises”) said he had been struck by the dignity and regular ieatures of Mr Stalin’s face. Questioned by Maitre Izard (Kravchenko’s counsel) on why he had not protested against the conviction of Cardinal Mindszenty. Dr. Johnson replied: "I do not think that has anything to do with my visit here.” Maitre Izard then asked Dr. Johnson about an article under his name which had appeared in the British Communist newsnaper “Daily Worker.” “I am proud of my relationship with the ‘Daily Worker.’ which is perfectly independent, for I am not a member of any political party.” said Dr. Johnson. During his testimony. Dr. Johnson spoke at length about the books he had written. He said: ‘“I have written three books about the Soviet Union and I have studied the country since 1917. If Kravchenko’s book is correct then mine are incorrect. If I am correct he is incorrect.” •

Dr. Johnson said he thought that the prosecution of Cardinal Mindszenty had been perfectly legal. He was certain that it was false to sav that the Cardinal had be°n drugged, “When T read the Hungarian Yellow Book my impression was that the Cardinal was guilty,” he said.