§ 39. Mr. Granvilleasked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the vital importance of propaganda to the total war effort, he will now consider the creation of an adequate Ministry of Propaganda, presided over by a Minister with a seat in the War Cabinet, instead of merely attending its meetings?
§ The Prime MinisterNo, Sir.
§ Mr. GranvilleIs the Prime Minister aware that we were told during a broadcast by the Director-General of the Ministry of Information that the Ministry of Information had no powers to release certain news from Service Departments, and does he not think that this is a matter which should receive the attention of the War Cabinet from time to time?
§ Mr. LawsonWould not the Minister for Propaganda have less time to attend to propaganda if he were a member of the War Cabinet?
§ The Prime MinisterThe House has several times shown a desire to limit as much as possible the membership of the War Cabinet, But the Minister of Information, by an entirely novel departure which was taken when the present Government was formed, is present at Cabinet meetings in order that he may be fully informed of what is going on, and, as he is present at the Cabinet, he naturally expresses his opinion when he thinks it desirable, or when he is asked for it.
§ Mr. GranvilleIf the Prime Minister is unable to take action with regard to this, will he see that the country gets more news on the war situation?
§ The Prime MinisterI hope the country will always get all possible news on the war situation, but I hope, in fact I am sure, the country will not wish to receive news on the war situation which adds to the dangers of our troops, while delicate, dangerous and critical operations are being successfully carried out.
§ Commander Locker-LampsonIs it not much better to wait and trust the Prime Minister?