HC Deb 16 August 1916 vol 85 cc1849-50
36. Mr. HOGGE

asked the Secretary of State for War how many retail newsagents in Edinburgh have been granted permits to dispatch printed matter under the new postal arrangements; on what principle are such permits granted; and why have they been refused in certain cases?

Mr FORSTER

In Edinburgh the requisite permission has been granted to five publishing firms, two newsagents and six firms of booksellers, librarians and stationers whose business is believed to be in part the export of newspapers.

Mr. HOGGE

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the newsagent mentioned is a wholesale newsagent, that the other shop is controlled by him, and that no other newsagent in Edinburgh has any permit to send newspapers anywhere?

Mr. FORSTER

I cannot honestly pretend that I know very much about it. The questions are so numerous that it has taken me the whole of the morning to deal with them. Perhaps the hon. Member will give me notice.