§ 29. Lieut.-Commander Fletcherasked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the statement to His Majesty's Ambassador in Berlin by the head of the German Government that conversations cannot be held by this country and Germany if they are the subject in advance of Press comment in this country, he will give an assurance that in no circumstances His Majesty's Government will make any attempt to interfere at the behest of a foreign Government with the right of the British Press to comment with complete freedom upon matters of concern to this country?
§ Mr. ButlerI am not aware that the German Chancellor has made any such statement to His Majesty's Ambassador in Berlin; but I can certainly give the assurance which the hon. and gallant Member desires. I would, however, accompany it, as on a previous occasion, with a reminder of the heavy responsibility of the Press in international affairs.
§ Lieut.-Commander FletcherCan the Minister give an assurance that no pressure, friendly or otherwise, will be brought to bear upon Press representatives visiting the Foreign Office in this connection?