§ 34. Mr. BAKERasked the Prime Minister whether he will give an assurance that existing workable wireless plant in this country shall not be handed over to foreign private companies?
§ The POSTMASTER - GENERAL (Mr. Hartshorn)I have been asked to answer this question. It is not my intention to sell any workable wireless station in this country to any company which is not registered in Great Britain; and in the event of any station being sold, it would be on terms which would adequately safeguard the interests of the State.
§ Sir H. BRITTAINIs that company registered in Great Britain to be a British company controlled by British capital?
§ Mr. WALLHEADIs it the intention of the right hon. Gentleman to sell any Government plant to private companies, British or otherwise?
§ Sir A. STEEL-MAITLANDDoes the right hon. Gentleman, by "British company," mean controlled by British capital or a company which, though registered in this country, may be controlled by foreign capital?
§ Mr. HARTSHORNI do not think it has quite reached a singe where any very definite statement can be made.
§ Mr. WALLHEADWill my right hon. Friend reply to my question?
§ Mr. HARTSHORNThe Donald Committee made a certain recommendation with reference to some wireless stations.
§ Mr. WALLHEADAre the Government bound by the Donald Committee's Report?
§ Mr. HARTSHORNNot at all.