HC Deb 13 November 1934 vol 293 cc1766-7
58. Mr. BUCHANAN

asked the Attorney-General whether he is aware that a conspiracy has been made to take possession of the British Broadcasting Corporation; and whether steps are being taken to prosecute the individuals concerned?

The ATTORNEY-GENERAL (Sir Thomas Inskip)

I have no evidence as to any such conspiracy. The second part of the question, therefore, does not arise.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Has the Attorney-General's attention been drawn to a statement in the Press, made by a gentleman to this effect, and, seeing that he has no information, I would ask him: Is it not a criminal thing for a gentleman to know of this conspiracy and not report it to the authorities; and will he take action against the gentleman who has stated that, this thing did take place and that he did not report such a thing to the authorities concerned

The ATTORNEY-GENERAL

The answer to all the questions is "No, Sir."

Mr. BUCHANAN

Am I to understand that there is a difference of treatment as between people who hold posts of honour and distinction and poor people? Will the right hon. Gentleman see that in this matter the law is equally carried out, as laid down and entrusted to him?

The ATTORNEY-GENERAL

There is no discrimination in the administration of the law between rich and poor, as far as this matter is concerned. I would call the hon. Member's attention to the law as regards privilege, when he asks me to prosecute on a statement made in another place.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Is it not a crime for a person to know about a conspiracy that is to take place and not to inform the authorities, and why is this gentleman who occupies a prominent position not prosecuted for what the Attorney-General knows is a crime?

Mr. CHARLES WILLIAMS

Does the Attorney-General not know that this thing has already been captured by the official Socialist party?

Mr. KIRKWOOD

The Attorney-General said it was a case of privilege. Are we to understand that a Member of the House of Lords is outwith the pale of the law, and can do and say what he likes?

Mr. BUCHANAN

I beg to give notice that at the first opportunity I shall raise this matter on the Adjournment.