§ 45. Sir Richard Aclandasked the Prime Minister whether the rule preventing Ministers of Cabinet rank from taking part in journalism still applies to the present Government.
§ The Prime Minister (Mr. Churchill)There has been no change in the rule in regard to this matter.
§ Sir R. AclandWill the Prime Minister consider objectively whether the general rules applicable to journalism are equally applicable to Lord Beaverbrook, who, through his ownership of newspapers, directs the writings of others and causes them, in relation, for example, to the Cooperative movement and to other organisations, to pour out a steady stream of serious misrepresentation?
§ The Prime MinisterThe proprietorship of newspapers has never been held to be journalism in the ordinary sense. Speaking as a journalist, I agree.
Mr. De la BèreIs it not a fact that what the "Daily Express" has said about the co-operatives is quite true?
§ Mr. George GriffithsNo, it is a lie.