HC Deb 06 November 1940 vol 365 cc1325-6
29. Major Milner

asked the Minister of Information whether he will now publish for the information of world opinion, a list or catalogue of non-military objectives bombed in London up to the latest date considered desirable?

Mr. Cooper

No, Sir. It is intended at the present stage to adhere to the policy of releasing for publication only the more notorious non-military objectives of importance which have been damaged or destroyed. The publication of a detailed list as suggested might well convey information useful to the enemy.

Major Milner

Could we not have a complete list up to whatever date is considered desirable of these notorious nonmilitary objectives? At the moment they are published in driblets, and would they not be more impressive if published in bulk?

Mr. Cooper

The question of security must take precedence. I can assure the House that if Germany published a list of objectives, it would be of the greatest value to us.

Major Milner

Would the right hon. Gentleman publish a complete list of those non-military objectives of which particulars have already been given? That would be very valuable.

Mr. Cooper

It would be very valuable to the enemy.

Major Milner

The right hon. Gentleman is misunderstanding me. Would he collate and publish particulars of all those non-military objectives which have already been published?

Mr. Cooper

That I will certainly do.

Mr. Sorensen

Would the right hon. Gentleman do that regarding Berlin as well?

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