§ 2. Mr. John Morganasked the Prime Minister whether it is the intention of the Government to consult the Press authorities concerning the essential qualifications of any additional staff appointed to the Ministry of Information?
§ Mr. ButlerI have been asked to reply. In the filling of all the more important posts in the Ministry of Information with which the Press are particularly concerned, close consultation took place with the chosen representatives of the Press; and this consultation will certainly con- 366 tinue as regards any future appointments of a similar nature.
§ Mr. MorganHow does the Minister account for the unfortunate incident on Saturday when a London evening paper rang up and were asked who the P.A. were, and were then asked to put their story in such a form as to enable a certain individual to understand the nature of their inquiry?
§ Mr. ButlerI have not heard of this incident. I must say it surprises me very much. I will certainly investigate it. I am sure the Press Association is well known to everyone.
Viscountess AstorWould my right hon. Friend bear in mind that until the new premises where the Ministry of Information is now established are complete the censorship should be left in the cabling offices, because in the last two or three days it has been first in one place and then another and has caused great—
§ Mr. Speakerrose—