HC Deb 27 April 1939 vol 346 cc1324-5W
Sir G. Broadbridge

asked the Home Secretary whether, having regard to the fact that the freedom which the Press of this country enjoys, and which has been taken advantage of by several publications to scare the public mind in these critical times by indiscreet headlines and articles, thereby adding to the unrest, and at the same time adversely affecting trade, commerce and investment, he will consider asking for powers to appoint a Press controller with a view to exercising these powers only if no more discretion is shown by the newspapers concerned?

Sir P. Hurd

asked the Home Secretary whether, in order to avoid the necessity for any form of State interference with the freedom of the Press, he will invite the recognised organisations of the Press to follow the example of other professions and set up within the profession itself a representative council of conduct, if necessary with statutory powers, in order to uphold fully the traditional dignity and responsibility of British journalism?

Sir S. Hoare

I would refer my hon. Friends to the replies given on the 6th March by the Prime Minister to a question put by the hon. Member for Salford, North (Mr. Morris) and supplementary questions arising out of it.