HC Deb 25 June 1935 vol 303 cc940-1
45. Mr. MANDER

asked the Prime Minister whether the Minister of Health will continue to carry out his duties in relation to Government propaganda?

The PRIME MINISTER (Mr. Baldwin)

As I have recently stated, it has never been the practice, nor do I think it desirable or practicable, that any Member of the Government should be precluded from engaging in political activities. As I am sure the hon. Member would be the first to appreciate, my right hon. Friend would not allow any such work to interfere with the active discharge of the duties and responsibilities of his office.

Mr. MANDER

Will the Prime Minister be good enough to say what proportion of the right hon. Gentleman's time will be devoted to his work as Minister of Propaganda and what proportion to his duties as Minister of Health?

The PRIME MINISTER

The hon. Gentleman knows perfectly well that in the present conditions, unfortunately, political advertisement is a necessity on behalf of every party. Some of us do it better than others, and that is all there is in it.

Mr. C. WILLIAMS

Will my right hon. Friend say what proportion of this group of the Liberal party will lose their deposits at the next election?

Mr. THORNE

Does not the right hon. Gentleman know that those who are in office have an advantage over those who are not in office?