HC Deb 11 November 1930 vol 244 c1466
50. Mr. HORE-BELISHA

asked the Prime Minister whether it is intended to publish any reports by the Economic Advisory Council; and, if so, upon what subjects?

49. Sir ARTHUR STEEL-MAITLAND

asked the Prime Minister whether he has received any report on, unemployment insurance from the Economic Advisory Council or any committee of the council; and, if so, whether he will publish it?

The PRIME MINISTER: The hon.

Gentleman will see from the White Paper Cmd. 3478, setting out the constitution of the council, that its proceedings are confidential. It would be contrary to the public interest to furnish the particulars asked for in these questions.

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

Are not there any respects in which certain reports of this committee might be very much in the public interest?

The PRIME MINISTER

That is so, and as the House knows when those reports are made, with the consent of the Advisory Council and of the Government, steps will be taken to publish them, but I am exceedingly anxious to lay down the rule that those reports are confidential, and that a great many of them are only possible because those who give information are assured that the seal of confidence will be placed upon them.