HC Deb 13 March 1919 vol 113 cc1451-2
21. Sir CLEMENT KINLOCH-COOKE

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is now in a position to make any statement with regard to the withdrawal of the No Returns Order, which is handicapping the sale and distribution of serious literature in many directions?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

My right hon. Friend is not now in a position to make a statement with regard to the withdrawal of the No Returns Order, but expects to be in a position to do so at an early date.

Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKE

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that these restrictions, are a hindrance to propaganda which, would be very useful to the Government?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

My right hon. Friend, I think, is aware of all the difficulties surrounding the question.

27. Sir M. BARLOW

asked the President of the Board of Trade why, if the newspaper owners have now received 75 per cent, more paper than they were allowed when the No Returns Order was, issued, there is any reason for the continuation of that restriction so far as newsagents are concerned?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

My right hon. Friend is considering the reasons for and against the continuation of the No Returns Order, and expects to make an announcement at an early date.

Mr. ROWLANDS

Will my hon. Friend expedite the decision on account of the great inconvenience which it causes to the retail newsagents?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

I should be very glad to do it if I could. [HON. MEMBERS: "Why not?"]