HC Deb 21 June 1944 vol 401 cc172-3
22. Sir Richard Acland

asked the Minister of Information whether he will take steps to secure wider publicity in this country for the part played by regular and irregular Italian forces operating behind the German lines in Italy, and particularly for the communiques issued on this subject by or through General Alexander's headquarters.

Mr. Bracken

The Press are well aware of the value of these activities, and can be relied on to give them their fair share of publicity.

Sir R. Acland

I appreciate that the Minister cannot compel anybody to give such publicity; but he has certain influence, and will he try to influence the Press to give greater prominence to these communiqués?

Mr. Bracken

I am not going to try to influence the Press. In the first place, they would be foolish to accept suggestions from me, and, secondly, editors can run their papers without outside interference.