HC Deb 16 July 1941 vol 373 cc586-7
27. Mr. Stokes

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty on what date he expects to publish the figures of shipping losses for the month of June?

Sir, V. Warrender

This return was made public yesterday.

Mr. Stokes

In view of the announcement that these returns are not to be published in future, will the Financial Secretary say whether arrangements will be made so that Members of this House may receive the information confidentially month by month?

Sir V. Warrender

I do not think that point is being considered, but I will look into it.

Mr. Shinwell

Have the Government decided to stop publishing shipping losses?

Sir V. Warrender

Yes, Sir, at regular intervals.

Mr. Shinwell

Will the information be imparted confidentially to Members of this House?

Sir V. Warrender

I do not wish to go beyond the statement attached to the figures published yesterday.

Mr. Kirkwood

When did the Government make this decision, because this is the first time that I have been made aware of the fact?

Sir V. Warrender

The decision was announced yesterday.

Mr. Hannah

Do we not publish far too much?