§ 26. Mr. Prittasked the Secretary of State for War whether he has yet considered the book "Is To-morrow Hitler's?"; and what steps he is taking to stop its being circulated to the troops?
§ Sir J. GriggI have now read this book by a distinguished American journalist. The chapter on Russia is, of course, only a comparatively small part of it. Other parts are about this country and are extremely complimentary. The book has not been, is not being and will not be circulated to the troops generally. It was included in the list of books furnished in November last to the limited number of subscribers to the Forces Book Club. Even if it were desirable I do not see how it is practicable now to withdraw this volume from those who have paid for it. As I explained to the hon. and learned Member on 15th December last the fact that a book is selected by the Forces Book Club in no way gives official approval to, or recognition of, the views which the book contains. His Majesty's Government hold no brief whatsoever for the views on the Soviet Government expressed in this particular book. On the other hand they derive some satisfaction from the favourable view taken in it of this country.
§ Mr. PrittIs it not clear that by putting a book in the Forces book list, it is automatically circulated to every unit that has subscribed for books, and that if instead of books the right hon. Gentleman gives abominable filth abusing our Allies, he is sabotaging the war effort?
§ Sir J. GriggThe hon. and learned Member is no doubt a judge of the kind of literature he describes.