§ 77. Mr. Kenneth Lindsayasked the Minister of Information what steps he has taken to safeguard an adequate supply of 747 books, in view of their importance both on the home front and in making known British views in North and South America?
§ Mr. BrackenI am fully aware of the importance of maintaining the supply of books, and in co-operation with my right hon. Friends the Ministers of Supply and Labour have recently met representatives of the Publishers' Association, in order to consider ways and means of surmounting the present difficulties arising from shortage of paper and labour. As a result, I am hopeful that a satisfactory adjustment of the various conflicting claims will be possible.
§ Lieut.-Colonel Sir Thomas MooreIs my right hon. Friend aware that if some arrangements are not made soon, there will be almost a famine in books in the New Year?
§ Mr. BrackenI naturally realise that, and we are doing all in our power to fulfil my hon. Friend's suggestion.