HC Deb 12 May 1915 vol 71 c1637
55. Sir J. D. REES

asked the Postmaster-General whether he will again consider the matter of further relaxing the restrictions imposed on code-cabling, in view to promoting the dispatch of business and satisfying legitimate demands?

Mr. HOBHOUSE

This matter has recently received careful consideration. There appears to be no general demand on the part of the commercial community for the admission of further codes of a general character. Suggestions have been made for the admission of published codes adapted to the needs of specific trades, but the number of trades claiming special codes would be so great as seriously to impede the censorship. Much diversity of opinion has been shown, even by chambers of commerce, as to the particular trades to be favoured and the particular codes to be selected. The admission of private codes would, no doubt, be welcome to business firms, but it would seriously increase the risk of improper use of the cables. Any attempt to discriminate between firms on the ground of good or bad faith presents insuperable difficulties, and for these reasons the military authorities are unable to agree to the admission of private codes.

Sir J. D. REES

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the reasons given by himself and the Assistant Postmaster-General during the recent Debate are not considered conclusive by business men concerned?

Mr. HOBHOUSE

That may be so.