HC Deb 27 February 1918 vol 103 cc1375-6
45. Mr. BILLING

asked the Prime Minister if he will call upon the Minister of Propaganda to furnish him with the names of any German papers in which appear a description of or reference to the alleged battle of Oxford Street on or before the date the description of this battle appeared in the columns of the "Daily Express" newspaper?

The CHANCELLOR of the EXCHEQUER (Mr. Bonar Law)

The account of the alleged battle of Oxford Street was issued by wireless from Berlin and intercepted by the Admiralty. It appeared in the morning papers on 7th February.

Mr. BILLING

Is it not a fact that this alleged battle of Oxford Street was published in the paper belonging to the Minister of Propaganda before any statement appeared in the German Press, and, having regard to that fact, would the right hon. Gentleman at least appeal to those members of the Government who own newspapers to exercise more control in their propaganda methods?

Mr. BONAR LAW

If the answer given to me is correct, and I assume that it is, it appeared in a number of papers on the same day. I shall make inquiries.