HC Deb 25 March 1952 vol 498 c208
49. Captain Ryder

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer the annual cost of producing the Central Office of Information publication "Target"; how many copies are distributed; and what is the Government's policy regarding this publication.

Mr. R. A. Butler

The cost of producing "Target" in the financial year 1951–52 was £10,224. The present distribution is 45,000 copies, to firms and trades unions. In view of the great importance of increasing productivity, and the evidence from large numbers of recipients that "Target" is valued and its contents put to practical use, its publication will be continued.

Captain Ryder

Will my right hon. Friend bear in mind that, in spite of what he says, many people feel that this publication is superfluous?

Mr. Butler

I have a reply from 7,912 firms that they wish to continue receiving the publication, and those replies, together with the others from organised labour and the trade unions, indicate to me that this publication has a value.

Mr. Hugh Gaitskell

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that his reply will give great satisfaction to both sides of industry?