HC Deb 11 April 1911 vol 24 cc221-2
Sir CLEMENT KINLOCH - COOKE

asked (1) whether the Under-Secretary for War will inform the House, now that the object has been accomplished for the publication of the book entitled "Compulsory Service," what were the terms of the contract entered into between the Secretary of State for War and the publisher, particularly whether the terms were half profits or royalties on sale; if the latter, what sum, if any, was paid in advance; and to whom such sum was paid? and, (2) how many copies of the book entitled "Compulsory Service," including all editions, have been sold; how many copies were distributed free by the publisher, by the Secretary of State for War, by General Sir Ian Hamilton, and by Admiral Sir H. W. Wilson; and how many copies were distributed at the expense of the State?

Colonel SEELY

In reply to this and to the next question, the terms of the contract were a matter of private arrangement between the Secretary of State for War and the publishers. The information for which the hon. Member asks cannot, therefore, be given except as regards the copies purchased out of public funds for distribution in the War Office, of which the number was thirty-six.

Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKE

Are we to understand that it is the privilege of a Cabinet Minister to use confidential information for publication for private purposes?

Colonel SEELY

There was nothing confidential in the information supplied by my Noble Friend.

Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKE

Is not a document confidential until it is laid on the Table of the House of Commons?

Colonel SEELY

I cannot accept that as being a correct statement of the case.