§ 29. Mr. Pooleasked the Secretary of State for War what is the practice regarding the admission of the Press to courts- martial; and whether it is the practice to advise the local Press whenever courts- martial are being held?
§ Mr. Hore-BelishaA court-martial is an open court like other courts of justice, and the Press may be admitted so far as accommodation permits. If it is necessary, however, for the administration of justice, the court has power to sit in camera. It is not the practice to advise the local Press whenever courts-martial are being held.
§ Mr. PooleIf a court-martial is constituted as an open court, will the right hon. Gentleman tell the House how it can be an open court or how the Press or the public can know that a court-martial is taking place, if no steps are taken to advise either the Press or the public that it is to be held?
§ Mr. Hore-BelishaInformation is invariably given to the Press if they make any inquiries.
§ Mr. PooleIf I bring to the notice of the right hon. Gentleman a difficulty which the Press has experienced, will he look into it?
§ Mr. Hore-BelishaBy all means.