§ 37. Mr. Sorensenasked the Minister of Information whether he will consider the propaganda value of demonstrating the nature and value of democratic freedom by circulating in our Dominions, Colonies and foreign countries reports of Debates in this House on social and constitutional issues or by encouraging the publication and wide circulation of extracts from the OFFICIAL REPORT?
Mr. CooperFull reports of Parliamentary proceedings are already made available by various means to all countries in which they are likely to be appreciated. If, however, the hon. Member has any suggestions to make with regard to any particular country, I will be glad to consider them.
§ Mr. SorensenIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that it is not sufficient merely to make them available but that a certain value resides in the circulation in as many countries as possible of illustrations of the free discussion that takes place in this House of Parliament? Would he not consider the possibility of circulating both sides of discussions that may take place here in order to demonstrate our superiority in that respect?
§ Mr. SorensenWill the right hon. Gentleman do everything he can to see that these Debates are circulated?
Mr. CooperI will see what steps can be taken, but I do not think that merely circulating the OFFICIAL REPORT would be the right way of dealing with the matter.