HC Deb 19 February 1919 vol 112 cc929-30
47. Lieutenant-Colonel WEIGALL

asked the Prime Minister whether the Govern- ment will consider instituting a systematic distribution of propaganda to inform the country as to the present state of national finance and economic condition of industry and commerce?

Mr. BONAR LAW

This question is receiving the consideration of the Government.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Will the right hon. Gentleman see that funds are not wasted on this propaganda?

Mr. BONAR LAW

We will try to see that there is no waste. Expense is not always wasted.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Have the speakers who are going about the country a vested interest in being employed?

Mr. BONAR LAW

Certainly not. They must be judged by their capacity.

Mr. WATERSON

Are we to understand that a blank cheque is given to a Committee of this description, and will the right hon. Gentleman use his influence to see that it is not given?

Mr. BONAR LAW

There is no question of a blank cheque. Certainly what ever expenditure is incurred will be carefully examined.