§ 24. Mr. Ellis Smithasked the Minister of Aircraft Production whether he is aware that the workpeople employed on or near the York machine understood that it was on the secret list and acted accordingly; and why was a statement allowed to be broadcast on 17th December which included references to this aircraft?
§ The Minister of Aircraft Production (Sir Stafford Cripps)The answer to the first part of the Question is in the affirmative. No official statement has been issued regarding this aircraft. I understand that the broadcast mentioned was an account of the Debate in this House on 17th December, in the course of which an hon. Member made reference to the York.
§ Mr. SmithIs the right hon. and learned Gentleman aware that this has had a very discouraging effect on the workpeople employed on this aircraft? Can steps be taken to prevent such a thing occurring in future?
§ Sir S. CrippsIt is a matter for Members of this House. It is obviously desirable that secret matters should not be mentioned in Debate.
§ Mr. SmithCould not the B.B.C. be informed that matters of a secret character should not be broadcast?
§ Sir S. CrippsThat is a question for my right hon. Friend the Minister of Information, and not for me.