§ 82. Sir William Davisonasked the Secretary of State for War what arrangements have been made for official photographers to accompany the British naval and military forces in Norway and elsewhere, having regard to the misleading and inaccurate photographs issued in neutral countries by the German Propaganda Department?
§ Sir E. GriggAs regards the Navy, I have been informed by my right hon. Friend the First Lord of the Admiralty that arrangements have been made for a number of news-reel camera men to be accredited to units of the Fleet. In addition, photographs are taken by naval photographic ratings and other naval personnel, and my hon. Friend may have noticed recently in the Press a number of such photographs of naval operations in Norwegian waters. With regard to the Army, one officer photographer with Fleet Street experience was specially brought back from France and is at present in Norway. As soon as the situation permits, two more civilian official photographers will follow. Four official photographers have been maintained in France by the War Office since last October. In December, a fully equipped developing section was established at General Headquarters and I am informed that the resulting service is fulfilling the requirements of the Press. A similar but slightly smaller organisation will be in operation in the Middle East within the next fortnight.
§ Sir W. DavisonIs my hon. Friend aware that the statement he has made will give general satisfaction, as in the late war it was nearly two years before this matter could be dealt with? I am very glad that it is now being dealt with more promptly.