HC Deb 14 May 1964 vol 695 cc109-10W
69. Mr. Edelman

asked the Minister without Portfolio whether he is aware of the practice of certain newspapers of buying the memoirs of individuals who achieve notoriety through their involve- ment in crime; and whether, in view of the fact that this is in conflict with public policy since it provides awards for association with crime, he will invite the Press Council to investigate this practice and advise him on the need for legislation to control it.

Mr. Deedes

I deplore the publication in newspapers of memoirs which lend glamour to crime and cater for an unhealthy interest in it. I understand that the Press Council has for some time been giving serious consideration to this matter and I shall welcome any pronouncement which it feels able to make on it.