HC Deb 30 October 1946 vol 428 c612
51. Mr. Scott-Elliot

asked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster whether the regulations preventing the posting of printed matter; including newspapers, to individual Germans can now be relaxed.

Mr. J. Hynd

Under existing regulations, newspapers and periodicals may be sent by individuals in the United Kingdom to individuals in the British zone of Germany or the British sector of Berlin through any publisher, newsagent or bookseller. As I explained yesterday in reply to a Question by my hon. Friend the Member for West Wolverhampton (Mr. H. D. Hughes) I am considering whether it is now possible to expand these facilities.

Mr. Stokes

Is there any weight limit in this connection, because HANSARD has been returned to me as being too heavy?

Mr. Hynd

I am not sure, but I think the suggestion that HANSARD has been returned is rather out of date.

Mr. Stokes

No—yesterday.

Mr. Hynd

This is the first I have heard about it and I will certainly look into the matter.

Captain Crookshank

Does the Minister's answer mean that an individual person in this country may not send a newspaper to an individual German through the post?

Mr. Hynd

Yes, Sir, unless it is sent through a publisher or a newsagent.

Captain Crookshank

Why should that be so?

Mr. Hynd

For censorship reasons.