HC Deb 22 April 1926 vol 194 cc1352-3
3. Mr. SCRYMGEOUR

asked the Home Secretary whether he will take into consideration the necessity for control of the Press by amendment of the law in so far as to ensure for public representatives therein attacked reasonable opportunity fur reply being made, in order that the rights of British public representatives may be safeguarded, as has been the case of French public representatives since 1881?

The SECRETARY of STATE for the HOME DEPARTMENT (Sir William Joynson-Hicks)

I sympathise with the desire of the hon. Member that a fair right of reply should be given by the Press to public representatives, but I am afraid that legislation on the subject would lie difficult and. controversial.

Mr. SCRYMGEOUR

While I recognise the difficulties, may I ask whether the right hon. Gentleman would be prepared to consider representations made with reference to particular constituencies?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

Of course, I shall be prepared to consider any representations which the hon. Member may make, if he will let me know of any particular difficulty.