§ 52. Mr. WILLIAM SHAWasked the Prime Minister what steps, if any, have been taken to inquire into the working of 42 the newspaper trusts; if he is aware that in one case at least the price of a newspaper has been increased by 200 per cent. since 1914 and that the advertisement rates have in many instances been increased by 200 per cent. reckoned by the line, while the line itself has been reduced by about one-sixth in length; and is he aware that the Associated Newspapers, Limited, increased their dividend on their deferred shares from 12 per cent. in 1914 to 20 per cent. in 1919?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANI have been asked to reply. The Standing Committee on Trusts and Trade Combinations has the necessary power and authority to investigate any trust or combination which it considers should be inquired into, and if the Standing Committee on Trusts consider that the matters referred to by my hon. Friend require investigation, the necessary action will no doubt be taken.
§ Mr. MYERSIs the hon. Gentleman aware that the immensely enhanced value of some of these newspapers is due to the fact that they are able to anticipate the intentions of His Majesty's Ministers and the policy of His Majesty's Government?