HC Deb 26 April 1920 vol 128 cc848-9
55. Major GLYN

asked the Lord Privy Seal how many and which Government Departments have publicity, propaganda, or publication Departments which issue, at regular or irregular intervals, notices to the various organs of the Press; what is the cost of these Departments; what use is made, as a rule, of such notices by the newspapers; and whether he will consult with the proprietors of the leading organs of the Press as to whether this newspaper service is of value?

Mr. BONAR LAW

Propaganda in the usually accepted sense is not carried out departmentally. A number of Departments, however, circulate information on some subjects connected with their Department, such as new regulations, dissemination of technical intelligence and kindred subjects, the cost of which is borne by the Department concerned. Experience has shown that considerable value attaches to this work.

Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKE

Could the right hon. Gentleman say how many publications are issued by the Departments?

Mr. BONAR LAW

No, I could not, but I know there are a very large number.