§ 5. Mr. Sorensenasked the Secretary of State for War whether both fiction and non-fiction libraries are established in all military barracks and other permanent centres; whether the non-fiction books include those other than of a military technical character; and whether any type of book available in public libraries is equally available to all ranks in the Army?
§ Mr. Hore-BelishaThe reply to the first two parts of the question is "Yes, Sir," and to the third part that there is no regulation restricting the kinds of books which library committees may recommend for purchase.
§ Mr. Robert GibsonIs there active collaboration between the War Office and the local authorities for the interchange of books with public libraries?
§ Mr. Hore-BelishaNot as far as I am aware.
§ Mr. GibsonWill the right hon. Gentleman take steps to see that such facilities are made possible for the use of the soldiers?
§ Mr. SorensenI understood that the right hon. Gentleman replied in the affirmative to the first part of the question; do I understand that he wishes to qualify that statement?
§ Mr. Hore-BelishaNo, Sir; my answer stands as it was given.
§ Mr. R. GibsonWill the right hon. Gentleman take steps to see that there is such collaboration?
§ Mr. Hore-BelishaIt may not be possible to achieve an arrangement with the local authorities to exchange the books, but the books can be provided quite freely.
§ Mr. GibsonAlthough it may not be possible to achieve an arrangement, will the right hon. Gentleman do his best?
§ Mr. Hore-BelishaIf the hon. and learned Gentleman will tell me what he has in mind and make a proposal to me, I shall be only too happy to consider it.