§ 1. Mr. Fellasked the Minister without Portfolio whether he will move to set up a select committee to inquire into relations between the Press and Members of the House of Commons.
§ The Minister without Portfolio (Mr. W. F. Deedes)No. I do not think this would be appropriate.
§ Mr. FellIs my right hon. Friend aware that recent events have not significantly improved the relationship between Members of Parliament and the Press Lobby? Is he further aware that this relationship is built on mutual trust and that its breakdown can only harm Parliament? Is he aware that a free Press, with all its shortcomings, is often the only safeguard of the liberty of the individual? In these circumstances, will my right hon. Friend have another look at this question and consider whether he ought not also to have another look even at the Tribunals of Inquiry (Evidence) Act, 1921.
§ Mr. DeedesI am the last person to underrate what is at stake here, but it does no justice to the good sense of journalists or Members of Parliament to suggest that there is a crisis in our relationship.