HC Deb 19 December 1957 vol 580 c608
47. Mr. Swingler

asked the Prime Minister if he will issue a directive to all Departments to take special steps, in the use of their information services, to emphasise acts of peace and good will and to make known Great Britain's constructive contribution to the achievements of world civilisation.

Mr. R. A. Butler

I have been asked to reply.

This is the objective of our information policy as recently defined in Command Paper No. 225. If the hon. Gentleman has any particular suggestion to offer, I know that my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster will be ready to consider it.

Mr. Swingler

Is the Lord Privy Seal aware that masses of citizens are sick and tired of the obsession with war preparations and military affairs, especially in B.B.C. news bulletins? Will he persuade those responsible to give more publicity to the peaceful and constructive achievements of the British people in spite of the Government they have?

Mr. Butler

Thanks largely to the inspiration of the present Administration, we have many great achievements to our credit. For example, we hold the land, air and water speed records, which is quite an achievement for a country of our size.