§ 35. Mr. Boyd-Carpenterasked the Secretary of State for War how many copies of the Bureau of Current Affairs publication No. 87, entitled "This Dollar Problem," were purchased by his Department for distribution to military units and personnel; between what dates their distribution took place; and what was the cost to public funds.
§ Mr. ShinwellTwelve thousand, six hundred and seventy-five copies of this publication were purchased by His Majesty's Stationery Office on behalf of my Department. Distribution began about 20th August and was completed by about 12th September, 1949. I understand that the cost to His Majesty's Stationery Office was £182. The cost of distribution cannot be isolated.
§ Mr. Boyd-CarpenterIn view of the fact that distribution concluded only six days before devaluation took place, was any useful purpose served in circulating a document which proves conclusively, on page 15, that the present Government would never devalue the pound?
§ Mr. ShinwellIn the circumstances then prevailing, it was quite a legitimate point of view.
§ Mr. Boyd-CarpenterDoes that answer mean—
§ Mr. SpeakerWe must get on with Questions. We have got to No. 36 in three-quarters of an hour. Mr. Skeffington Lodge.