HC Deb 31 October 1945 vol 415 cc408-9
47. Mr. J. Langford-Holt

asked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, how many British Press representatives there are at present in Austria.

The Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster (Mr. John Hynd)

I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given by the Minister of State on 17th October, in which he stated that, according to the latest information, there were then six British correspondents in Austria. So far as I am aware, the position has not changed appreciably in the meantime although the situation is rendered somewhat fluid by the fact that Press correspondents arein a habit of moving in and out at short notice in transit for other countries.

Mr, Langford-Holt

Can the hon. Gentleman assure the House that the despatches forwarded by the Press correspondents are uncensored?

Mr. Hynd

I think I am in a position to give that assurance, but if the hon. Member has any information which would suggest that it is not correct, perhaps he will let me have it.

Mr. Pickthorn

Could we be told what Press correspondents do to make a situation fluid?

Mr. Hynd

I do not propose to take advantage of the opportunity afforded by that question, but the fact is that they occupy aeroplane space, and move from point to point.