HC Deb 23 July 1947 vol 440 cc1218-9
50. Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

asked the Minister of Food if he will make a reduction in the purchases by his Department of the publications of the Bureau of Current Affairs, proportionate to the reductions in newsprint imposed by His Majesty's Government on the daily newspapers.

Dr. Summerskill

There will be no immediate reduction. I cannot say yet what we shall do when our present order for one year's set of posters is completed.

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

When that time comes, will the hon. Lady bear in mind the desirability of equality of sacrifice?

Brigadier Rayner

Is the hon. Lady aware that this publication is full of Socialist propaganda and sometimes propaganda of a pro-Russian and anti-British character, of which the Carnegie Trust would not approve; and when possible would she refrain from spending any public money in this way?

Dr. Summerskill

The answer to the first part of the supplementary question is in the negative. I must remind the House that there are 18 Government Departments who avail themselves of these publications.