HC Deb 07 July 1943 vol 390 cc2083-4
37. Colonel Burton

asked the Minister of Information whether he is aware that the articles printed in the paper, "La Marseillaise," published in London, are not calculated to improve relationships with our Allies; and what steps he proposes to take to deal with the newspaper concerned?

Mr. Thurtle

The licence given to this newspaper has now been withdrawn.

Mr. Shinwell

Has this matter anything to do with the fact that this paper espouses the cause of General de Gaulle?

Mr. Thurtle

The hon. Member may remember that my right hon. Friend indicated in this House about two weeks ago that, if any of these publications attempted to stir up discord among the United Nations, he would take steps to have their licences withdrawn. This decision is in accordance with that statement.

Mr. Shinwell

I naturally accept that explanation from my hon. Friend, but I ask the question pointedly: Has this decision anything to do with the fact that this paper espouses the cause of General de Gaulle?

Mr. Thurtle

Not at all, Sir.

Mr. Pickthorn

Is there a copy of this paper in the Library of the House? If not, could the last 12 issues or so be put there?

Mr. Thurtle

So far as I know, it is not in the Library. I will consider whether we can put the last 12 issues into the Library.

Mr. Driberg

In view of the reports published this morning of the method by which this paper was suspended, are we to take it that the Paper Control is now used as an instrument of censorship?

Mr. Thurtle

Not at all. The Regulations governing the use of paper were drawn up in order to prevent the wasteful use of paper, and I should imagine this action has been taken in accordance with that purpose.

Mr. Gallacher

Is it not the case that this paper criticised the wrong Ally? Have not other papers slandered the Soviet Union and nothing has been done about it? [HON. MEMBERS: "Oh!"] I will produce the slanders.

Mr. Driberg

I beg to give notice that I will raise this matter on the Adjournment.