HC Deb 17 October 1939 vol 352 cc676-7
45. Sir Frank Sanderson

asked the Prime Minister whether he is previously consulted before public comments are made by the Ministry of Information upon important speeches made by the heads of neutral or enemy States?

47. Mr. Culverwell

asked the Prime Minister whether he will take steps to ensure that no comment is published by the Ministry of Information upon matters of foreign policy without his previous concurrence or that of the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, in view of the importance attached to these comments by foreign countries?

The Prime Minister (Mr. Chamberlain)

As I informed the House on 3rd October, the Ministry of Information no longer issues to the Press news or comments in the form of news. This function in matters of foreign affairs has reverted to the News Department of the Foreign Office for which my noble Friend the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs is responsible.

Mr. Culverwell

Does this also apply to the British Broadcasting Corporation's comments and official reports?

The Prime Minister

I imagine the statements made by the British Broadcasting Corporation on foreign affairs are derived from the Foreign Office.

50. Brigadier-General Spears

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is the total monthly saving to public funds of the reorganisation of the Ministry of Information?

Sir J. Simon

My Noble Friend is still engaged upon a review of the organisation of the Ministry, and until that review is complete, I cannot say what savings will be effected.

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