§ 24. Sir H. BRITTAINasked the Prime Minister whether, by consultation between the political parties, any arrangements have been made for the use of the broadcasting service during the General Election by representatives of political parties?
§ 27. Captain FRASERasked the Prime Minister whether the political parties have come to an arrangement as to the broadcasting of political speeches before and during the election; and, if so, what is the arrangement?
§ The PRIME MINISTER (Mr. Baldwin)I would refer my hon. Friends to 18 the notices issued by the British Broadcasting Corporation on this subject which appeared in the Press on the 5th and 10th April.
§ Mr. SAKLATVALAWill the Prime Minister explain why the Communist party is deliberately excluded?
§ Sir H. BRITTAINMay I ask the Prime Minister to believe that his answer is entirely satisfactory?
§ The PRIME MINISTERIn answer to the hon. Member for Battersea North (Mr. Saklatvala), I would say that this is not a matter in which the Government have any concern at all.
§ Mr. SAKLATVALAIs the Prime Minister aware that the Broadcasting Corporation receive Government help? What remedy does the right hon. Gentleman afford against any high-handed action by the Broadcasting Corporation?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI would suggest consultation with the leader of the party most in sympathy with the hon. Member.