HC Deb 13 November 1945 vol 415 cc1919-20
67. Mr. Reeves

asked the Minister of Information when he expects to be able to translate into actual figures the estimated cost of, and income derived from, films distributed abroad by his Ministry.

The Minister of Information (Mr. E. J. Williams)

I hope my hon. Friend will be content with the answer given to him on 30th October. The exact figures are not readily available, and to compile a com- prehensive return would involve an excessive amount of work.

Mr. Reeves

In view of the very large sum of money involved, is there any means of checking the accounts in regard to these films?

Mr. Williams

The accounts go before the Public Accounts Committee.

Mr. C. Williams

Can the hon. Gentleman say why the House should be denied these figures? Is it part of the Government's secrecy policy?