§ 35. Captain PETER MACDONALDasked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether it is intended to place on the agenda of the Ottawa Conference the question of making use of the Empire broadcasting facilities, which 1468 will exist after the completion of the station at Chelmsford, in order to assist in imperial trade co-operation; and, if so, whether any arrangements will be made for an expert in such matters to accompany the British delegation?
The SECRETARY of STATE for DOMINION AFFAIRS (Mr. J. H. Thomas)It was recommended at the Imperial Conference of 1930 that the broadcasting organisations in the various parts of the Commonwealth should be encouraged to confer and to arrange for the reciprocal broadcasting of suitable programmes. In conformity with this policy a representative of the British Broadcasting Corporation has recently paid a visit to Canada where he is understood to have taken the opportunity of discussing the possibilities of co-operation and of an exchange of programmes. In all the circumstances His Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom do not think it necessary to propose that the subject of Empire Broadcasting should be placed on the agenda of the Conference nor do they contemplate the inclusion of an expert in the United Kingdom delegation. None the less, they will of course take any opportunity which may present itself of supporting any practical suggestions which would tend to facilitate further co-operation on the lines advocated at the last Imperial Conference.
Viscountess ASTORDoes the right hon. Gentleman contemplate the inclusion of a woman at the Conference?
§ Mr. MAXTONWill the right hon. Gentleman arrange that the proceedings of the Conference shall be broadcast so that we can keep in touch with what our representatives are doing?