HC Deb 18 June 1917 vol 94 cc1406-7
15. Mr. LYNCH

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether his attention has been called to an article in the "Morning Post" of 12th June last, tending to discredit the ability and to disparage the moral principles of members of the present Russian Government; whether criticism of a grossly offensive character in reference to the Governments of the other Allies is permitted; and, if not, why discrimination is shown, to the detriment of Russia?

Lord R. CECIL

I have read the article in question, and do not think it can be described as an attack on the Russian Government. The two last parts of the question do not, therefore, seem to-arise. His Majesty's Government are most anxious that nothing should be said or written in this country offensive to our Russian Allies. But as many months ago the Foreign Office censorship was abolished they must rely mainly on the-patriotism and good sense of newspaper editors and others to avoid increasing our international difficulties in this way at the present time.

Mr. LYNCH

Is the whole tenour of the article that this new Government must be attacked and pulled down simply because it is not a dynastic Government and that you should sacrifice thousands of lives to the superstition of royalty?

Lord R. CECIL

I do not know what the last observation may mean. As to the general question, I read the article when the hon. Member called my attention to it, and I do not think that would-be a fair description of it.

Mr. PRINGLE

Are any articles-allowed in newspapers which support the Government, no matter what their character is?

Lord R. CECIL

No; as far as I am concerned, it makes no difference to me at all whether the newspaper supports the Government or not. I am not quite sure whether the "Morning Post" does.