HC Deb 30 January 1984 vol 53 cc32-3W
Mr. Dalyell

asked the Secretary of State for Defence (1) why, pursuant to his answer on 23 January, specific authority is not required for commanders of Her Majesty's ships to give interviews to local newspapers when visiting ports;

(2) why commanders of Her Majesty's ships are required to obtain specific authority to give interviews to national newspapers.

Mr. Stanley

An interview with the press is a normal and accepted part of a port visit. Questions on such an occasion would be expected to centre on the ship and its company. Specific authorisation is not required. Interviews which are expected to cover matters of wider interest generally require specific authorisation.