HC Deb 24 July 1940 vol 363 c767
16. Mr. G. Strauss

asked the Minister of Information whether his recent declarations concerning the maintenance of the liberty of the Press extends to magazines and books?

Mr. Cooper

Yes, Sir.

Mr. Strauss

Can the right hon. Gentleman discourage newsagents and booksellers, particularly those who have a virtual monopoly, from exercising a private political censorship of their own by banning certain books?

Mr. Cooper

I have no powers over the action taken independently by newsagents and booksellers.

Mr. Strauss

Will the right hon. Gentleman agree that it is contrary to the spirit of his recent declarations?

Mr. George Griffiths

Did the right hon. Gentleman tell the book stores at King's Cross that they were not to sell me that book, "Guilty Men"?

Mr. Cooper

No, Sir.