§ Q1 Mr. F. Noel-Bakerasked the Prime Minister what representations he has received from the Advertising Inquiry Council about tobacco advertising; and what reply he has sent.
§ The Prime Minister (Mr. Harold Macmillan)The hon. Member wrote to me in his capacity as Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Advertising Inquiry Council Limited about the Council's Report on tobacco advertising. I informed the hon. Member that the conclusions of the Report are being taken into account in the Government's present consideration of the problem.
§ Mr. Noel-BakerAre we to take it from the Prime Minister's reply that the Government have done nothing about and as yet have formed no opinion on the value of advertising, notwithstanding this report and the report of the Royal College of Physicians pub- 272 lished a good many weeks ago? Will the right hon. Gentleman treat this matter as one of very great urgency deeply affecting the health of the nation?
§ The Prime MinisterAs I told the House earlier, I am not yet in a position to make a full statement. Certain action has been taken regarding posters and other such action. There has been action concerning the time in which some of these advertisements appear on television.
§ Mr. GaitskellCan we expect a statement before the Summer Recess?
§ The Prime MinisterI hope so. I cannot be certain. The date on which the hon. Member for Swindon (Mr. F. Noel-Baker), who is chairman of the executive committee of this organisation, wrote to me was at the end of May.
§ Mr. LiptonWhen will the Government take their courage in both hands and stand up to the commercial T.V. interests, the tobacco barons and such people? When will the Government show some courage in grappling with this matter?
§ The Prime MinisterThe hon. Gentleman, in his passion for order, must have regard to the importance of freedom.
§ Mr. Noel-BakerIn view of the Prime Minister's reply, I shall seek to raise this matter on the Adjournment before the Summer Recess unless a statement is made.