HC Deb 26 October 1943 vol 393 cc28-9
49. Mr. Bellenger

asked the Prime Minister how many despatches have been received during the war from Commanders-in-Chief, Forces serving overseas; and how many have so far been published?

The Prime Minister

The answer to the first part of the Question is 27, and to the last part two.

Mr. Bellenger

Does the Prime Minister recollect that during the last war 15 despatches were received from the Army then on the Western Front and were published within a very short time of their receipt by the Government? Why is this safety curtain dropped between our Commanders in the field and the general public?

The Prime Minister

I think I have fully answered the Question on the Paper.