HC Deb 07 March 1928 vol 214 cc1136-7
45. Captain FRASER

asked the Prime Minister if, in view of the raising of the ban on the broadcasting of controversial matter, the Government will set up a Select Committee of both Houses to consider whether any parts of the proceedings of the Houses of Parliament should be broadcast?

The PRIME MINISTER

In 1926, after consulting the Leaders of the other parties and obtaining information through the usual channels, I came to the conclusion that there was a greatly preponderating body of opinion against broadcasting the proceedings of this House. I do not think there has been any substantial change of opinion since then, and in these circumstances I do not propose to set up a Committee such as my hon. and gallant Friend suggests.

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

Would not this Committee be better able to ascertain the proper views on the subject?

Sir WILLIAM DAVISON

Is it not a fact that the House of Commons is a deliberative assembly and not a public meeting?