HC Deb 26 July 1949 vol 467 cc2244-5
48. Mr. Austin

asked the Prime Minister in view of the fact that many sections of the public are still misinformed as to the nature of the country's economic situation, particularly in regard to the achievement of a dollar-sterling balance of trade, whether he will supplement the publicity already given to this question by means of broadcasts, pamphlets and cinema activities.

The Prime Minister

I entirely agree with my hon. Friend as to the great importance of the widest possible understanding of the country's economic situation; and the Government will continue to take all appropriate steps to this end.

Mr. Austin

While grateful to my right hon. Friend for that reply, may I ask him to bear in mind the necessity for an early broadcast of a non-political character by himself or the Lord President of the Council?

Viscount Hinchingbrooke

Will the Prime Minister instruct the Minister of Health to put Socialism last in all future speeches?

Mr. Marlowe

If the people of this country are misinformed as to our economic position is that not entirely due to the failure of the Government to inform them?

The Prime Minister

There has been ample information by the Government, and a lot of sham information by other people.

Captain Crookshank

If hon. Members are to accept the right hon. Gentleman's statement that much information has been given, does he not realise that most of that information is given in language not understood by the people?

The Prime Minister

I do not think so. I do not suppose the right hon. and gallant Gentleman has the time to see all the speeches and read all the pronouncements, but a great many are made in very powerful language.

Mr. F. Noel-Baker

In view of the admirable and lucid presentation in a simplified White Paper issued shortly after the Budget, will the Prime Minister look sympathetically on plans to follow that up with similar publications dealing with this particular problem.

The Prime Minister

I am quite prepared to consider anything on that. I do not think it is right to under-estimate the intelligence of the electorate. They understand a great deal more than hon. Members opposite give them credit for.