§ 53. Mr. Boyd-Carpenterasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies how far it is the practice of his Department to grant exclusive use to particular newspapers of information forwarded through official channels by his officers in colonial territories.
Mr. Creech JonesOn the contrary, the Information Department of the Colonial Office is most eager to disseminate on the widest possible basis all information concerning colonial matters. If the hon. Member will let me know of any particular instance he may have in mind I will certainly make full inquiries and communicate with him.
§ Mr. Boyd-CarpenterCan the right hon. Gentleman reconcile that wholly satisfactory answer with the fact that on 4th September the information officer in Nigeria sent to him a telegram beginning with these words:
Under-Secretary suggests this exclusive for Reynolds' and Herald' "?
Mr. Creech JonesI shall have to look into this particular case, but I imagine the reference is to an item of interest 1555 regarding the spread of co-operation in Nigeria and, accordingly, would be of special interest to the readers of "Reynolds."
§ Mr. Oliver StanleyIs the right hon. Gentleman going to suggest that information in regard to co-operative movements in the Colonies is of interest only to readers of "Reynolds" newspaper? In view of this very extraordinary occurrence, will he investigate it thoroughly and tell the House exactly how this matter has arisen?
Mr. Creech JonesOf course, cooperation is of general interest, or should be of general interest, to the public. I have made a statement that, in regard to any information brought to my notice, I will make inquiries.
§ Mr. DribergWill my right hon. Friend also investigate at the same time the apparent leakage of official information from his Department which led to this Question being put down?
§ Mr. Boyd-CarpenterWill the right hon. Gentleman make a statement to the House or would it be more convenient if I put a Question to him in, say, a fortnight's time?