§ Mr. SpearingTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Services what recent decision he has taken in respect of sending information, including press releases, to voluntary and other organisations.
§ Mr. PortilloThe Department's information division reviewed its distribution of the large number of press releases, many of which go to recipients who are concerned with local or other matters not specifically involved with the National Health Service or social security. Accordingly, press release distribution is generally limited to journalists. However, an exception is made for headquarters of voluntary and other charitable organisations which continue to receive press releases. Private individuals and others may obtain details of press releases issued from the daily index subscription service of the Central Office of Information.