§ 23. Sir N. GRATTAN-DOYLEasked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether any steps have yet been taken by the Governments of the British Dominions to organise marketing propaganda similar to that carried on by the Empire Marketing Board in this country; if so, what has been done; and if not, what steps have been taken by his Department to expedite the organisation of such propaganda?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for DOMINION AFFAIRS (Mr. J. H. Thomas)So far as I am aware no definite step on the lines indicated has yet been taken by any Dominion Government. The decision in such a matter rests solely with the Government of the Dominion concerned, and no such steps as are suggested by the hon. Member have been or could properly be initiated by the Government here; but I need hardly say that should any proposals of such a kind be made by any Dominion Government, they would be most heartily welcomed, and we should be ready to co-operate by any means in our power.
§ Sir N. GRATTAN-DOYLEDoes not the right hon. Gentleman think that it would be a very sensible proceeding to intimate to the various Dominions that it would meet the great desire of this country if they took such steps?
§ Mr. THOMASI have already explained to the House that I impressed upon the Dominion Premiers the importance of the work which the Empire. Marketing Board was doing in advertising their goods, and some of them indicated that they were prepared to do similar work in their Dominions. No doubt the hon. Member will realise the difficulties existing at the moment in all the Dominions, both financial and economic.