§ Mr. Thorneasked the Minister for the Civil Service when he last asked the Morning Star newspaper for its circulation figures; and if he will now ask for them again.
§ Mr. Charles R. MorrisTheMorning Star has been told on a number of occasions that if it provides independently audited figures it will be considered for Government advertising on the same basis as other national newspapers. As my hon. Friend will appreciate. Government funds for advertising are limited, and the Central Office of Information selects newspapers for Government advertising on a value for money basis taking into account especially the circulation of the individual publication. Newspapers wishing to be considered for Government advertising are, therefore, asked to provide independently audited circulation figures.