HC Deb 19 March 1917 vol 91 cc1555-6
Mr. BILLING

(by Private Notice): I desire to ask the Under-Secretary of State for War for what reason, if any, the Commander-in-Chief of the Home Forces failed to comply with his own announcement that he would issue a second communiqué on the Zeppelin raid last Friday-night giving further authentic details?

Mr. MACPHERSON

There was and is nothing to add to the information which had been given in the communiqué issued. No lives were lost and practically no damage was done. In the circumstances the Field-Marshal Commanding-in-Chief Home Forces decided that the issue of a second communiqué was unnecessary, a course with which I feel sure the House will agree.

Sir HENRY DALZIEL

May I ask my hon. Friend whether, when a definite announcement is made, that a further communiqué is going to be forthcoming it would not be right and proper to say that there is no further information and so satisfy the country?

Mr. MACPHERSON

Yes, I think that would be advisable.

Sir H. DALZIEL

Then do it next time.

Mr. BILLING

Will it be done in future?

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