HC Deb 09 September 1941 vol 374 cc37-8
73. Sir P. Hurd

asked the Minister of Information whether he has now reviewed the work of the Social Survey Section of his Department; and whether he will see to it that the public shall in future be left to use the accepted means of ventilating grievances and securing redress through elected local bodies and elected Parliamentary representatives?

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Information (Mr. Thurtle)

I am now reviewing the work of the Social Survey Section of my Department. Though my review is not yet complete, I can assure the hon. Member that this social survey is being conducted for the purpose of obtaining necessary information for Government Departments, and not in order to assist the public to ventilate grievances.

Sir P. Hurd

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the work of this Department in the past has trenched very largely upon the proper function of Members of Parliament?

Mr. Thurtle

If it is any reassurance to my hon. Friend, I can assure him that my right hon. Friend is no believer in what is called "snooping."