HC Deb 07 July 1931 vol 254 cc1908-9
47. Mr. CULVERWELL

asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the fact that the Moscow trade union broadcasting station is transmitting addresses in English on the policy and achievements of the Union of Socialist Soviet Republics, he will arrange for the transmission from the Post Office station at Rugby of broadcast addresses in Russian on the economic and social conditions in the United Kingdom?

The PRIME MINISTER

I do not consider that any useful purpose would be served by the adoption of the hon. Member's suggestion.

Mr. CULVERWELL

Does the Prime Minister not think that these Russian broadcasts constitute a most subtle and dangerous form of propaganda? If they are thought to be desirable by the Russian Government, does he not think that we ought to retaliate in some way?

The PRIME MINISTER

Really, I do not think they make a farthing's worth of difference.

Mr. MARJORIBANKS

Would not the hon. Member's suggestion mean a great influx of Russian scientists and professors?

The PRIME MINISTER

I think that we ought to welcome to this country everybody who has done scientific work and historical research, in order that they may attend the international conference that will sit in a few days' time.

Mr. MARJORIBANKS

Does the Prime Minister include M. Bukharin in that euphemism?

The PRIME MINISTER

indicated assent.