§ 50. Mr. Emrys-Evansasked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the importance of British publicity abroad in all its aspects, His Majesty's Government will give this matter urgent consideration?
§ The Prime MinisterFor some time past His Majesty's Government have been impressed with the desirability of ensuring that the fullest and most effective use is made of the various efforts now being conducted to spread a better understanding of this country and of the British people abroad. It has now been decided to set up a Co-ordinating Committee whose function it will be to prevent overlapping and, by exchange of information among the bodies engaged in various forms of publicity abroad, to co-ordinate their programmes and activities. His Majesty's Government have appointed Sir Robert Vansittart, Chief Diplomatic Adviser, to be chairman of this committee, and they propose to invite representatives of other bodies engaged on work of this character, such as the British Broadcasting Corporation, the British Council and the Travel Association to serve on the committee.
§ Sir P. HarrisTo what Ministry will it be appropriate to direct questions about the progress of the work? Will it be the Foreign Office or the Home Office?
§ The Prime MinisterPerhaps the hon. Baronet will put that question down.
§ Mr. Godfrey NicholsonWill the Prime Minister consider increasing the grant to the British Council?