HC Deb 13 February 1939 vol 343 cc1339-40
6. Mr. Rhys Davies

asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the necessity of better informing public opinion in the United States of America on British achievements, he will consider extending the scope and powers of the British Library of Information situated in the city of New York?

Mr. Butler

The British Library of Information in New York was established in 1920. It is not concerned with propaganda and its scope is strictly limited to answering requests from persons and in- stitutions in the United States of America for authoritative information about the British Empire and its affairs. Since its institution the Library has considerably expanded in order to meet the increasing demands for its services. I am not sure what the hon. Member has in mind as regards the extension of its scope and powers; but it should be made clear that His Majesty's Government have no intention of making any change in the policy of limiting its functions to the supply of information on demand.

Mr. Davies

In view of the fact that the United States is such a large country, would it not be possible to have branches of this library in Chicago and San Francisco?

Mr. Butler

I will certainly investigate that point.

Mr. Mathers

If information is really given by the British Government to this organisation, would it not be well to have a branch in London to which Members of Parliament could apply?

Mr. H. G. Williams

And Edinburgh?