§ 38. Commander Sir Archibald Southbyasked the Minister of Information in what capacity a body called the British Institute of Public Opinion is employed by the Ministry of Information; what is the constitution of the Institute; whether his attention has been called to a pamphlet entitled "What Britain Thinks—The British Institute of Public Opinion," issued without address or the name of the printer; and whether this pamphlet was issued by or with the approval of his Department?
§ Mr. BrackenThe British Institute of Public Opinion has been occasionally employed by the Ministry of Information to conduct surveys of public opinion on particular subjects. The Institute is a private concern, and I am therefore not in a position to make a statement about its constitution. The pamphlet referred to was not issued by or with the approval of the Ministry.
§ Sir A. SouthbyCan the Minister say whether it is in accordance with the law that circulars should be issued without an imprint showing the printer and the author, and, if the circular does not carry this information, will he take steps to see that prosecutions are instituted?
§ Mr. BrackenNo, Sir, I will do no such thing. That is a matter for the Home Secretary.
§ Sir A. SouthbyIs the Minister aware that it is a matter for the Attorney-General?
§ Mr. BrackenI am obliged for the correction, and I suggest that the Question should be put down to the Attorney-General.