LESS CENSORSHIP

Grey River Argus, 15 December 1943, Page 6

LESS CENSORSHIP

ON U.S. WAR NEWS WASHINGTON. Dec. 13. In order to encourage a freer presentation of war news, the . United States Censorship Office has liberalised the voluntary Press and radio censorship-. The relaxation covers news of war production, merchant shipping operations, prisoner of war camps, diplomatic negotiations not directly connected with war operations, and movements of lend-le.ase nicttovial The “New York Times” comments •—“All news that can help the enemy should be suppressed, and it is humane'to hold back news of battle losses until next-of-kin have been notified. : ■. It is indefensible to hold back bad news in order to guard a commander’s reputation. It is an offence-against democracy to suppress .good or bad news because of the expected effect on public morale. The public can take care of its own morale without artificial aids.” SYDNEY, Dec. 13. Australian newspapers believe the censorship should be limited to the supnression of news helpful to the enemy and the holding back of losses until next-of-kin have been notified. The limitations, suggested by- th e “New York Times” are, says Mr Eric Kennedy, Acting-President of the Australian Newspaper Proprietors’ Association. endorsed in principle by Australian newspapers. The Association had endeavoured to Impress on successive Australian Governments that such boundaries should limit censorship operations.