HC Deb 17 December 1942 vol 385 cc2074-5
77. Sir Malcolm Robertson

asked the Minister of Information to what extent the British censorship have refused to allow criticisms of Admiral Darlan to be transmitted to the United States?

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

Criticisms of the arrangement with Admiral Darlan have from the beginning been passed by the British Censorship under the established rules.

Dr. Russell Thomas

Is there not considerable misunderstanding in America as a result of our censorship of news sent to America from the Near East?

Mr. Thurtle

I do not think there is any censorship of news sent to America. There may be misunderstanding in America on the subject.

Dr. Thomas

Is there not delay?

Mr. Astor

Does that answer mean that it is the American censorship that is preventing the American public from realising what is British public opinion about Admiral Darlan?

Mr. Thurtle

I am not saying that. I am saying that the British censorship did not prevent the American public from knowing what British opinion is.

Mr. Astor

Is it due to any other censorship?

Mr. Thurtle

Not to my knowledge.