§ Mr. Chris SmithTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department under what circumstances D notices are issued to the press in relation to seminars and conferences taking place on private property, organised by private companies, organisations or individuals; and what difference there is in applicability between national newspapers and local newspapers.
§ Mr. Archie HamiltonI have been asked to reply.
It is not the practice to issue D notices in respect of specific seminars or conferences. They are provided by the 443W Defence, Press and Broadcasting Committee to editors and publishers as general guidance on matters which engage aspects of national security. Editors are invited to consult the D notice secretary if they are in doubt, about their particular application.
Any advice given by the secretary on issues of national security is equally applicable to national and local newspapers.