The Pittsburgh Press (September 15, 1941)
ARMY AND NAVY STUDY CENSORSHIP PLANS
Washington, Sept. 15 (UP) –
Acting Secretary of the Navy James Forrestal advised the House today that the Army and Navy are working on a plan of censorship of communications between the United States and the rest of the world.
In response to a resolution introduced by Rep. Paul W. Shafer (R-MI), Mr. Forrestal said the plan was subject to “higher approval” and may require legislation. He did not say whether the plan was being developed for proposed use at an early date or for use in event of actual war.
He insisted the plan did not embrace “compulsory censorship on the press” as suggested in Mr. Shafer’s resolution.
Mr. Forrestal’s reply was directed to the Naval Affairs Committee, which moved successfully in the House that Mr. Shafer’s resolution be tabled on the basis on the Navy Department communication.