HC Deb 11 December 1958 vol 597 cc508-9
23. Lieut.-Colonel Cordeaux

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what action he contemplates taking, under the relevant prison regulations, against the Daily Express newspaper for having obtained, by means of a misrepresentation to the prison authorities, an interview with Dr. Klaus Fuchs, now serving a sentence of imprisonment in Wakefield Goal.

Mr. R. A. Butler

There is no power to take any such action under the Prison Act, 1952, or the Prison Rules.

Lieut.-Colonel Cordeaux

Does not my right hon. Friend agree that this incident touches a new low in journalistic practice by the newspaper concerned? As by her behaviour the reporter concerned violated one of the most important ethics of her profession, will my right hon. Friend consider at least referring the matter to the Press Council?

Mr. Butler

I will consider any suggestion made by my hon. and gallant Friend. What I am anxious to do is to see that such an incident does not arise again. We have taken up this matter with the Prison Commissioners, and I have reason to believe that it will not arise again.