HC Deb 26 June 1918 vol 107 cc1049-50
51. Mr. KING

asked the Prime Minister whether the pamphlet on the League of Nations by Viscount Grey of Falloden was submitted to the Government or the Foreign Office for comment or approval before publication; on what date was it submitted to the Censor; whether its general argument and conclusions have the support of the War Cabinet; and, if so, whether it will be circulated by the War Aims Committee?

Mr. BONAR LAW

The answer to the first and second parts of the question is in the negative. As regards the rest of the question, the pamphlet has not been considered by the Government.

Mr. KING

Will it be considered by them?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I have no doubt it has been considered by members of the Government, but not considered by the Government as a whole.

Mr. LEES-SMITH

If the answer to the second part of the question is in the negative, is the right hon. Gentleman aware that it is a breach of the Regulations under the Defence of the Realm Act if the pamphlet was not submitted to the Censor, and as humble people have been punished for this, will he say what action the Government propose to take?

Mr. BONAR LAW

Perhaps the hon. Member will put the question to the Home Office, whose business it is to deal with these matters.

Mr. KING

In view of the importance of these persons involved, will the right hon. Gentleman himself give some attention to it, so that past colleagues and potential future colleagues of his obey the law?