HC Deb 23 April 1917 vol 92 cc2034-5
59. Mr. OUTHWAITE

asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the official control of the Press which has been established, he will take steps, in the interests of man-power and paper economy, to suspend the publication of controlled news papers and issue as a substitute an official sheet of communications from the various Departments?

Mr. BONAR LAW

The Government are not prepared to adopt the suggestion of the hon. Member.

60. Mr. OUTHWAITE

asked the Prime Minister whether he will have placed in the Library copies of all official directions that may be issued to the Press?

Mr. BONAR LAW

The suggestion is not one which could be adopted by the Government.

Mr. OUTHWAITE

Would it not be advisable to endeavour to inform hon. Members of the instructions given to the Press as to what they are to tell their readers?

Mr. BONAR LAW

No; obviously it would be both inconvenient and undesirable.

Mr. WHYTE

Can we be assured that the authority which exercises this control is really a responsible authority and not a military officer acting on the whim of the moment?

Mr. BONAR LAW

It is a responsible authority and not a military authority.