55. Lieut.-Colonel MURRAYasked the Prime Minister whether he has given further consideration to the subject of the publication and sale by ex-Cabinet Ministers of confidential information acquired during their period of office; and, if so, whether a decision has been reached to take such steps as will put a stop to the publication of information of this nature until 15 years have elapsed from the date of demitting office?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThis matter has been referred to a Committee of the Cabinet who are considering the whole question.
Lieut.-Colonel MURRAYWhen the Committee of the Cabinet reports, will the right hon. Gentleman make announcement to the House?
§ The PRIME MINISTERYes, that will be done.
§ Sir JOHN BUTCHERWill the right hon. Gentleman consider the propriety of extending to ex-soldiers and sailors of high command this principle which it is proposed to apply to ex-Cabinet Ministers?
§ Mr. HARRISAs the ex-Prime Minister made a statement in one of the papers of his views, will the right hon. Gentleman give the ex-Prime Minister a chance of stating his views to the Cabinet?
§ The PRIME MINISTERYes, certainly, should he wish.
Lieut.-Colonel MURRAYWill the right hon. Gentleman consider the suggestion that any moneys received from the sale of these article should be handed over to charity?