HC Deb 04 November 1918 vol 110 cc1787-8
51. Colonel WEDGWOOD

asked the Prime Minister whether any steps have been taken to find out how the un- authorised terms of armistice with Germany came to be communicated to two daily papers on Thursday last?

Mr. BONAR LAW

The answer is in the negative.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

May I ask whether the premature publication of these terms is not intended to prejudice the decision of the Versailles Council as to what terms should be granted?

Mr. BONAR LAW

No, Sir; as it happens, I did not see those terms. If they had represented the decision of the Council I should have thought it the duty of the Government to take action in the matter; but I am told they do not in the least represent the decision of the Council, and it is obvious the Government cannot deal with such a case.

Mr. PRINGLE

Is it necessary for newspapers making statements with regard to either peace terms or armistice terms to submit those statements to the Censor before publication?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I do not think any such rule has been made.

Mr. PRINGLE

They take the risk?