§ 6. Mr. HIGHAMasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what methods of propaganda have been adopted by the News Department of the Foreign Office to stimulate British trade in Allied and neutral countries and if cinematographic films of a similar or better kind than those now being distributed by the United States Government are part of their propaganda programme; and, if not, will he state the reason?
Mr. HARMSWORTHThe reports furnished by His Majesty's representatives abroad of the exhibitions of British Official cinematograph films during the latter part of the period of hostilities showed an appreciable diminution of interest in most foreign countries; but the films are now being used to excellent effect in countries recently opened up, such as Belgium, the Balkans, and Turkey. For purely commercial purposes, I am not inclined to exaggerate the value of propaganda conducted by the cinematograph; but I think that it is a useful adjunct to other methods, and I can assure my hon. Friend that it is not being lost sight of by the Department of 586 Overseas Trade, and such important unofficial organisations as the Federation of British Industries.