HC Deb 10 March 1927 vol 203 cc1337-8
11. Mr. WALTER BAKER

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether his attention has been called to the series of articles appearing in the "People" newspaper over the name of a pensioned ex-chief inspector of Scotland Yard; and whether, having regard to the effect of such literature, he will see whether it is possible to prevent pensioned officers writing such articles?

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

I dislike this kind of journalism, but at present it is not illegal. I am, however, considering the whole matter.

Mr. BAKER

Is not the material for these articles really a Departmental matter, which comes under the official Secrets Act?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

The hon. Member will probably recollect drat I did prosecute in a recent case, and I was successful; but in this case, as far as, I have the information at present, it is not of sufficient importance to put the machinery of the Official Secrets Act into operation.

Colonel DAY

Is there any difference between this ease and the book published by the Chancellor of the Exchequer, which has many official secrets in it?