§ 13. Miss Wilkinsonasked the Prime Minister for what reason His Majesty's Government issued invitations to meet representatives of the German Press at the Carlton Hotel on Tuesday, 15th November; and whether Government Hospitality Fund money was used for this purpose?
§ Mr. ButlerArrangements were made some time ago for a small reception to be held on 15th November for a party consisting of officials from German Government departments and economic correspondents of various German newspapers, who recently visited London. The cost was defrayed by the Government Hospitality Fund. In view of the hospitality frequently shown by the German Government to parties of visitors from this country, and in view of the practice of His Majesty's Government in extending hospitality to distinguished foreign visitors, the holding of this small reception scarcely requires justification.
§ Miss WilkinsonWhile accepting the Minister's apology, may I ask whether in view of the circumstances in Germany last week, it was really in the best of taste to continue with this particular act of hospitality?
§ Mr. ShinwellWhat was the nature of the conversations which took place at this function?
§ Mr. ButlerI am sure they were very interesting.
§ Mr. ShinwellIf they were interesting, could the House not be informed of them?