§ 14. Captain Gammansasked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that the optimistic statements made by the military spokesman in Cairo in the first days of the Libyan campaign regarding the destruction of the Axis armoured forces did harm, both at home and abroad; and whether he proposes to take any steps to prevent a repetition of similar statements?
§ Captain MargessonI am in communication with the Commander-in-Chief, Middle East, on this subject.
§ Sir H. WilliamsCan my right hon. and gallant Friend say whether this post has been held continuously by the same person, or can he give us the names of persons who have held this position?
§ Captain MargessonNo, Sir, I cannot give that information, and, as I say, I am in communication with the Com-mander-in-Chief in the Middle East.
§ Lieut.-Colonel Sir Thomas MooreWhy should these military spokesmen be anonymous? Why should not their names be mentioned, so that people listening to them will know the value to attach to their statements?
§ Captain MargessonIt may not always be the same person who makes the statement.
§ Captain MargessonThat is under the Commander-in-Chief.