HC Deb 08 May 1941 vol 371 cc978-9
59. Mrs. Rathbone

asked the Minister of Supply whether he is aware of the number of valueless pamphlets, both from private individuals and organisations, being received by Members of Parliament day after day; and whether there can be some further control to prevent this waste of paper?

The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Supply (Mr. Harold Macmillan)

There are very severe restrictions on the quantity of paper made available for general printing and on the distribution of advertising circulars. However much I sympathise personally with my hon. Friend, I should be loth to become a censor of pamphlets to be distributed either to hon. Members or to the general public.

Mr. Gordon Macdonald

Is the hon. Gentleman satisfied that the amount of space taken up for advertising purposes in papers generally is justified?

Mr. Macmillan

This Question refers to circulars. Paper used for miscellaneous printing is limited to 20 per cent., and for circulars to 15 per cent., of the pre-war amount.

Mr. Charles Williams

Could not the Government themselves reduce the number of circulars?

Forward to