§ 18. Mr. Garro Jonesasked the Secretary of State for War whether he is satisfied that proper steps have been taken by his Department to prevent the leakage of military information into enemy countries by way of neutral countries through the agency of foreign telegrams; and, in particular, whether the censors of these telegrams by any method test their authenticity; or whether their scrutiny goes any deeper than the prima facie contents and meaning thereof?
§ Mr. StanleyYes, Sir.
§ Mr. Garro JonesHas the right hon. Gentleman been informed that there is disquiet in all the services for which his Department is responsible: over the fact that telegrams addressed to any country in the world except Germany are despatched, although they might be in code, and will he make inquiries in order to ascertain whether representations have been received from other Services and other Departments?
§ Mr. StanleyWhen the hon. Gentleman put down the Question, I, naturally, made those inquiries. Quite clearly, the House would not expect me to tell in public of the steps which have been taken.
§ Mr. Garro JonesIs it still the practice hat a telegram can be sent from any post office in this country to any country in the world except Germany, with no restriction, apart from a prima facie examination?
§ Mr. StanleyI really cannot give particulars of the steps which have been taken. I can only tell the House that I have made inquiries, and am satisfied that all practicable steps have been taken.