HC Deb 18 February 1918 vol 103 cc458-9
51. Mr. FREDERICK WHYTE

asked whether the appointment of Lord Beaver-brook as Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and as Minister of Propaganda involves the communication to him of con- fidential official information; and whether Lord Beaverbrook retains his interest as proprietor of the "Daily Express"?

Mr. BONAR LAW

As regards the first part of the question, the rights and duties of the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster are precisely similar to those of other Ministers of the Crown The answer to the last part of the question is in the affirmative, but I am informed that he has resigned from the board.

Mr. WHYTE

The answer does not meet the second part of the question. Does the Minister of Propaganda receive confidential Government information?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I presume he does. Naturally he receives whatever information is considered useful for his work.

Mr. WHYTE

Are we to understand from the announcement made in this morning's Press, that another newspaper owner is also to be made the recipient of confidential Government information?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I really do not know what answer I can give. I presume that my hon. Friend alludes to the appointment of Lord Northcliffe as Minister of Propaganda in enemy countries. I was not aware of the appointment, but I believe that it was given on the ground that it would be done more efficiently by Lord Northcliffe than by anyone else.

Mr. WHYTE

Does the right hon. Gentleman understand that appointments of this nature seriously undermine the confidence of the country?

Sir C. HOBHOUSE

Was the appointment of Lord Northcliffe made by Lord Beaverbrook or by the Government?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I am afraid that I cannot answer in detail. I am sure that it would not be made without the knowledge of the Prime Minister.

Colonel LOWTHER

Is there any reason for imagining that Lord Beaverbrook should not be entrusted with matters of a confidential nature? Has he not both by his conduct in this House and his services to the Empire proved himself to be not only one of the most enlightened but also one of the most trustworthy members of the Government?

Mr. BILLING

I would like to ask the Prime Minister—

Mr. SPEAKER

Order, Order !