HC Deb 23 June 1949 vol 466 cc445-6
45. Mr. R. A. Butler

asked the Prime Minister when the publication of the Official Histories of the War is likely to begin.

The Prime Minister (Mr. Attlee)

As the House is aware, the Official Histories of the War are being prepared in two series, a military series and a series dealing with the civilian war effort. The first volume in the civil series is being published today. It is "British War Economy" by Professor W. K. Hancock, Chichele Professor of Economic History at the University of Oxford, who is the editor of the series, and Mrs. M. M. Gowing. This is in the nature of an introductory volume to the series, and gives a general survey of the central direction and development of economic policy during the war.

Mr. Butler

Could the Prime Minister say how soon we may expect further volumes on the war effort apart from the civil front, and how soon we may expect further volumes on the civil front?

The Prime Minister

I am afraid I could not give the information with regard to the volumes on the civil war effort without notice, but the military history will take some time.

Mr. Osborne

Could the Prime Minister tell us what the price of the volumes will be?

The Prime Minister

I am afraid I have not got that information