HC Deb 18 February 1954 vol 523 cc2128-9
6. Lieut.-Colonel Lipton

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer how much it cost to print and distribute "Broadsheet on Britain No. 32"prepared by the Information Division of the Treasury; and to whom it was distributed.

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

The cost of printing was £199 3s. 6d. and of distribution about £21 2s. It was distributed as usual to some 90 trade unions, to foremen, and others in industry, and to adult education, citizenship and other voluntary organisations. Additional copies were supplied on request to agricultural organisations.

Lieut.-Colonel Lipton

Was it really worth incurring even this comparatively small expenditure for the purpose of conveying such piffling platitudes as, "From the soil comes most of our food," "The cost of food affects us all," "We are all in it together," and so on?

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

The purpose of this publication, as of its predecessors in this series, which have continued for a good many years, was to underline the importance of agriculture to our national economy. I hope that the hon. and gallant Member does not dispute that that is desirable.

Mr. Woodburn

Is the Financial Secretary aware that the Prime Minister has made very pungent comment on platitudes?

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

I accept the first half of that supplementary question.