HC Deb 09 February 1939 vol 343 c1116
49. Mr. Dingle Foot

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether it has yet been decided to introduce legislation amending Section 6 of the Official Secrets Act, 1920?

64. Sir Percy Hurd

asked the Home Secretary what steps have been taken towards implementing his undertaking to amend the penal provisions of the Official Secrets Act, as affecting journalists in the discharge of their professional duties?

The Secretary of State for the Home Department (Sir Samuel Hoare)

His Majesty's Government have given careful consideration to this question and have decided to introduce a Bill to amend Section 6 of the Official Secrets Act, 1920. In view of the state of business in this House, the Bill will be introduced in the House of Lords.

Mr. Foot

Will the right hon. Gentleman say how soon the terms of the Bill will be available?

Sir S. Hoare

I should hope, on an early day next week.