§ 40. Mr. R. MORRISONasked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been drawn to the statements contained in the "Daily Express" newspaper of 29th March, in which certain Budget proposals are set forth on what purports to be the authority of the Chancellor of the Exchequer; and whether he will consider the advisability of taking action to prevent the circulation and sale to the public of news which is known by those who publish it to be false?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANI am not aware of any action that could be taken for this purpose.
§ Mr. MORRISONIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the artcile referred to was described by the Chancellor of the Exchequer as containing not a word of truth from beginning to end? Is he further aware that last week a news-vendor was sent to prison for 14 days for offering false news for sale? Is there one law for newsvendors and another for publishers?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANIf the hon. Member can show me what action can be taken, I will be glad to consider it. [HON. MEMBERS: "Intern them! "]
§ Mr. AMMONIs it not possible to take action against a proprietor for the publication of false information, just as you would against a newsvendor?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANI am not aware of what action I can take.
§ Mr. PRINGLEHow many newspapers would survive in these circumstances?