§ 32. Mr. M. Philips Priceasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs why permission was recently given and paper allocated for the appearance in this country of the Polish newspaper "Slowv Polsky."
Mr. McNeilWith the progressive disbandment of the Polish forces overseas, and the arrival of many of them in this country, there has naturally been a greatly increased demand for Polish newspapers here. In the circumstances, His Majesty's Government did not consider that it would be reasonable, or in accordance with our democratic traditions, to refuse a licence for a second Polish daily newspaper to be started.
§ Mr. Philips PriceIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that this newspaper carries on propaganda against the present Polish Government? Is it not unwise, therefore, to give permission for the publication of a newspaper which may involve us in diplomatic issues?
Mr. McNeilWe gave, of course, great consideration to this matter. It was because we were satisfied that this second newspaper was a commercial undertaking, and because we were not satisfied with the conduct of the previous Polish newspaper, that we gave permission for the supplies.
§ Mr. Wilson HarrisThe right hon. Gentleman says he was satisfied this is a commercial undertaking. Can a paper of this kind really exist on a commercial basis?
Mr. McNeilI should make it plain that it is not in receipt of any kind of subsidy or aid from His Majesty's Government.
§ Mr. HarrisWould it not be better if the Poles learned Basic English, and read "The Times" and the "Daily Worker"?