HC Deb 01 August 1922 vol 157 cc1246-7
33. Mr. HURD

asked the Postmaster-General whether he has considered the suggestion that an Imperial Wireless Council should be appointed, to include representatives of the Dominions and India, so as to establish the fullest possible co-operation in the development of wireless facilities within the Empire; and whether he can now make an announcement on the subject?

Mr. KELLAWAY

Questions of policy relating to Imperial wireless communication are at present referred to, and, subject to the Cabinet, decided by the Imperial Communications Committee, of which my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Colonies is Chairman, and on which the India Office is represented. Whether it will be desirable to include direct representation of those Dominions controlling Imperial wireless stations will be considered when the Dominions have decided upon their policy.

34. Mr. HURD

asked the Postmaster-General whether the representatives of the Canadian Government have yet reached this country for the discussion of Canada's relation to the Imperial wireless chain; and, if not, when they will arrive?

Mr. KELLAWAY

The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative. The Canadian Government have appointed their representatives, but, so far as I am aware, have not fixed a date for their departure.

35. Sir H. BRITTAIN

asked the Postmaster-General what support he is receiving from the different parts of the Empire in furtherance of the wireless chain; and what is approximately the earliest period within which this form of inter-Empire communication may he completed?

Mr. KELLAWAY

The revised scheme of Imperial wireless communications, which I described in the statement. I made to the House on the 13th ultimo, has been communicated to the Indian and Dominion Governments, and. until replies are received, I am unable to answer the hon. Member's question.