§ 70. Mr. G. R. Howardasked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether his attention has been drawn to a document issued by the Reference Division of the Central Office of Information, entitled "Countries of the Commonwealth," under reference R. 2348, on 29th February, 1952; whether he is aware that it is a virtual repetition of material previously published either by the Central Office of Information or by other Departments in Whitehall; and whether he will take steps to discontinue such publications.
§ Mr. Boyd-CarpenterYes. This document is produced for and at the request of the Commonwealth Relations, Colonial, and Foreign Offices for the use of their information services overseas. Its total cost was £6 15s. and I think it is worth it.
§ 71. Mr. G. R. Howardasked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether his attention has been drawn to a document, "The Austrian Treaty Negotiations," issued under reference R. 2349 by the Central Office of Information on 8th March, 1952; and what purpose is served by this publication.
§ Mr. Boyd-CarpenterYes. It was produced at the request of the Foreign Office for the use of the information services of the overseas Departments. Its purpose is to provide them with accurate documentation on this subject, to assist them in countering any misrepresentation of British policy and intentions which they may encounter.