HC Deb 04 October 1939 vol 351 c1950
83. Mr. Riley

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Information whether he is aware that some regional officers have circularised newspaper proprietors in their areas informing them as to how they should run their businesses in war-time; and whether this was done with his authority?

Sir E. Grigg

I am not aware of any incidents such as those to which the hon. Member refers; but if the hon. Member will furnish me with particulars I will gladly inquire into the matter.

Mr. Riley

I have a circular here from a regional committee to newspaper proprietors, advising them on how to run their own businesses. Does the hon. Member think that that is part of their duty?

Sir E. Grigg

Perhaps the hon. Member will let me have a copy of the circular.

Mr. Garro Jones

Would it not be better, instead of relying on private information, to circularise these gentlemen, many of whom are well-known Conservatives, that they must not be led by their political predelictions to give instructions to newspapers, many of which are far too Conservative?