§ 45. Sir J. BUTCHERasked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the great historical value of the 25 volumes of Peace handbooks which were prepared and issued by the Foreign Office for elucidating the problems which arose in Europe and elsewhere out of the Great War, he will authorise the distribution of sets of 1324 these volumes amongst as many as possible of the public libraries in the large towns of the country?
§ Earl WINTERTONThe preparation of these handbooks, as to the value of which I share my hon. and learned Friend's opinion, entailed a heavy expense, both editorial and for printing, upon His Majesty's Government, which is now being in part recovered by their public sale. While, therefore, I hope that they will be widely purchased by the public libraries, as well as by private persons, in this country, I do not think that it would be consistent with principles of national economy to recommend a gratuitous distribution of them.
§ Sir J. BUTCHERWill there be any surplus of these books?
§ Earl WINTERTONI could not possibly say. It depends on the sale.
§ Mr. INSKIPHas the hon. Gentleman any information as to the stock of these books, and is he aware that a great many of them are becoming obsolete and out of date through not being disposed of?
§ Earl WINTERTONI have no personal knowledge of these books, but I will make inquiries if the hon. and learned Member desires.
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYAre these books available in the British Museum or any public library?
§ Earl WINTERTONI cannot say.