HC Deb 21 February 1967 vol 741 c1413
24. Mr. Robert Cooke

asked the Minister of Power whether he will issue a general directive, in the public interest, to the nationalised industries for which he is responsible to cease publication of house magazines and newspapers during the present period of national economic depression.

Mr. Freeson

No, Sir. The purpose of house journals is to keep employees and others specially interested abreast of developments in their industry and to stimulate their interest and involvement in its affairs. This seems to me an excellent objective and some of the material produced is among the best in the country.

Mr. Cooke

While wishing in no way to destroy any corporate spirit which might exist in these industries, may I ask the hon. Gentleman to say how much is at present being spent at this rather difficult time?

Mr. Freeson

I cannot give an exact figure, but I understand that it is a very minute traction of the industries' turnover—and I stress "industries" in the plural.