HC Deb 08 July 1926 vol 197 cc2242-4
17. Mr. SAKLATVALA

asked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that the heading given by him as Statement of Expenditure, to Document No. 26, on page 58 of the Communist Papers published by his Department, is not a correct description of such a rough memorandum of some estimate; and if he will take steps to correct the same in any future editions?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

If the hon. Member will suggest a more appropriate note to describe the nature of Document 26, I shall be glad to consider it. Perhaps the addition of the word "contemplated" would meet his wishes

Captain WEDGWOOD BENN

May I ask who is responsible for the headings to these documents? For example, there is one alleging participation by Arcos, which is not borne out by the document. Who is responsible for that?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

The Secretary of State is responsible.

Captain BENN

May I ask whether there are documents, other than those published, to support the veracity of that heading?

Commander WILLIAMS

Might not the Home Secretary also look through some of the various Liberal publications?

32. Mr. BASIL PETO

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether he is aware that the Blue Book containing the Communist Papers is now out of print, and that the public are awaiting the second edition; and whether he can say what was the number of the first edition printed, and what is the reason for the delay in the production of a further supply for the public?

The FINANCIAL SECRETARY to the TREASURY (Mr. Ronald McNeill)

Owing to unexpectedly heavy demands, I regret that this publication was out of print for a short time last week, but copies are now available. The first edition was of 2,500 copies.

Captain BENN

Will the headings that were inserted on the authority of the Home Secretary be substantially altered in the document?

Mr. McNEILL

I cannot say.

Mr. RILEY

Is there a profit out of the first edition of the book, and what use will the right hon. Gentleman make of it?

Mr. McNEILL

I must have notice of that question.

Mr. SAKLATVALA

Will some measures be adopted to see that the Government description will be made more accurate, and would the Government be prepared to reduce the price and make a public edition if the Communist party are prepared to take over a certain number?

Mr. McNEILL

I am not aware of any inaccuracy in the publication.

Colonel DAY

How many will the second edition comprise?