HC Deb 06 March 1940 vol 358 cc400-1W
Mr. R. Gibson

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware that, while intimation of the Royal visit to Greenock was made to representatives of English newspapers, the "Greenock Telegraph" received no notification; that this failure to be notified caused great inconvenience to that newspaper; whether he will ascertain the cause of this remissness; and what steps he intends to take to ensure the adequate recording by local newspapers of local events of importance during the war emergency?

Captain McEwen

I understand that permits to allow representatives to be present during the Royal visits in Greenock on 27th February were sent to the "Greenock Telegraph" on Monday, 26th February. Particulars of the visits were communicated to them on the same date. I regret any inconvenience suffered by the Press; but the hon. and learned Member will appreciate that arrangements for the visits in question had to be made under conditions of great secrecy; and that the degree of advance notice usual under ordinary circumstances was impossible.