HC Deb 06 April 1950 vol 473 c1367
63. Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury what was the cost to public funds of the issue of Home Affairs Survey No. 148, dated 21st March; and what were his objects in authorising the publication of all the material therein contained.

Mr. Jay

Two hundred and eight pounds. The object of the Survey is to provide British information officers abroad with factual material for their work.

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that one of the items in this issue is a prolonged defence of the Control of Engagements Order? In view of the fact that that Order has now been withdrawn, is any purpose served by seeking to defend it, unless that purpose be retrospectively to try to cover up the error of the Government in introducing it at all?

Mr. Jay

I understand that the purpose of the article was to give the history of the Control of Engagements Order when it was in operation.

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

But what is the purpose now of giving that history unless it be to attempt to justify the Government?

Mr. Jay

I should have thought that there was always a purpose in giving an historical record in matters of this kind.