HC Deb 10 March 1947 vol 434 cc948-9
47. Mr. Wyatt

asked the Prime Minister whether he will make a statement as to the results so far achieved in ensuring full public understanding of the White Paper, "Economic Survey for 1947", by means of the B.B.C., cinema and other forms of publicity.

The Prime Minister

The bookstall edition of Cmd. 7046 was published on 5th March. The print is now 150,000, and sales are continuing. The Central Office of Information has completed, in production, or under consideration, 35 films which support or explain its text, some for theatrical and others for non-theatrical distribution. A number of B.B.C. discussions, talks and features has taken place and more are being planned. To the list of measures which I gave my hon. Friend on 27th February can now be added an extensive programme of Press and poster advertisements, which will be launched as soon as possible.

Mr. Wyatt

As there are no fewer than five Ministers involved in the production of this White Paper, would my right hon. Friend undertake to see that all the publicity connected with it is placed under a central control?

The Prime Minister

That is done

Mr. R. S. Hudson

Would the Prime Minister take steps to see that whoever is responsible for these films makes it clear to the general public that there are no remedies for the situation contained in the White Paper?

Earl Winterton

May I ask the Prime Minister whether these films will include a description of the Debate which is about to take place, and selections from the speeches on all sides, so that the public may be afforded an opportunity of judging impartially who is right and who is wrong?

The Prime Minister

I doubt whether the him is a particularly good medium for circulating speeches.

Mr. Wilson Harris

Does not the Prime Minister realise that the Government have placed themselves at considerable disadvantage by not making much more use of the B.B.C.; unless people are reminded constantly to switch off lights they will not do so, and unless they are reminded from day to day that extra work is required from them in the interests of the nation, it will not be forthcoming?

The Prime Minister

I am much obliged to the hon. Gentleman and I quite agree.