HC Deb 31 July 1940 vol 363 c1238
54. Mr. Walkden

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether he has yet ascertained the source from which Messrs Duncans, Limited, of South Shields, obtained the information which enabled them to publish details of the tea rationing scheme some hours before the broadcast by the Minister of Food; what action has been taken against the person perpetrating this breach of confidence; and what steps have been taken to prevent a repetition?

Mr. Boothby

I would refer my hon. Friend to the answer I gave yesterday to my hon. Friend the Member for Consett (Mr. David Adams).

Mr. Walkden

Will the hon. Gentleman answer the last part of the Question, which asks what action has been taken against the person perpetrating this breach of confidence and what steps have been taken to prevent a repetition?

Mr. Boothby

My inquiries are not yet completed, but I did say that the Ministry would take every possible step to prevent a repetition.