HC Deb 25 October 1926 vol 199 cc542-3
Mr. RHYS

(by Private Notice) asked the Postmaster-General if he is now in a position to announce the composition of the new Broadcasting Authority.

The POSTMASTER-GENERAL (Sir William Mitchell-Thomson)

My right hon. Friend, the Prime Minister, proposes to recommend the following for appointment by the Crown as the original Governors of the Broadcasting Corporation, which it is intended to constitute by Royal Charter:

  • The Earl of Clarendon, Chairman.
  • Lord Gainford, Vice-Chairman.
  • Sir John Gordon Nairne.
  • Dr. Montague John Rendall.
  • Mrs. Philip Snowden.

Mr. THURTLE

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether any salaries are to be paid to these Governors; and, if so, what the salaries are to be?

Sir W. MITCHELL-THOMSON

I think the most convenient course to pursue is for me to lay papers covering the whole subject. I shall have to ask for a Supplementary Estimate for the payment of the members of this body, and I will therefore lay papers as soon as possible giving all details.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Were we not promised an opportunity of discussing the whole organisation of this new Corporation; and why have the names of the new board been announced before Parliament has been consulted or even gone through the form of passing a Bill?

Sir W. MITCHELL-THOMSON

What I undertook to do, and what I propose to carry out, is that Parliament should have an opportunity of discussing the whole question of the future of this body. That can be most conveniently done on the presentation of a Supplementary Estimate, and in order that Parliament may be able to discuss the matter I will lay papers. Then when the Supplementary Estimate is presented the hon. and gallant Member, if he is still in his place, will have an opportunity of discussing the matter.

Mr. N. MACLEAN

Will the right hon. Gentleman say whether his Department has power to set up an organisation of this kind?

Sir W. MITCHELL-THOMSON

It is proposed to set up this body by Royal Charter.

Mr. MACLEAN

If the right hon. Gentleman's Department has not the power to set up this body, why has it been formed before coming to this House and asking for the power?

Sir W. MITCHELL-THOMSON

There is no intention of asking the House for such power. It is proposed to set up this organisation by Royal Charter.

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

Will any expenditure on salaries be incurred before the Supplementary Estimate is introduced?

Sir W. MITCHELL-THOMSON

No, Sir.

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