§ 48. Mr. GARDNERasked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that cases have recently occurred in the Civil Service of the communication of confidential departmental information to ex-civil servants to be used for propaganda purposes; and what steps he is prepared to take to prevent such a breach of discipline?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLI am not aware of any cases of the kind referred to. If the hon. Member is in a position to give me any specific information, I will of course have inquiry made.
§ Mr. GARDNERCan the right hon. Gentleman say what the nature of that inquiry would be—what form it would take?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLIt would largely consist of questions being asked of persons who are likely to be able to give information.
§ Mr. GARDNERI learned that quite early when I went to school. I am asking a serious question. There are many precedents for cases of this character, and I am asking the Chancellor of the Exchequer to indicate what form the inquiry will take, and he has not answered. I know it means asking questions, but the right hon. Gentleman knows that there was a case quite recently in the Civil Service, and I wish definitely to know what form this investigation will take. If I do not get an answer to that question I cannot give the information.
§ Mr. CHURCHILLIf I had it, I might be able to give further information as to the kind of inquiry.