§ 68. Mr. ANSTRUTHER-GRAYasked the Postmaster-General whether he will request the British Broadcasting Corporation to discontinue their present policy of including in the news programme announcements of fires or disturbances at present taking place in London, as being liable to cause serious interference with fire brigade and ambulance services?
§ The ASSISTANT POSTMASTER-GENERAL (Sir Walter Womersley)I will convey my hon. Friend's suggestion to the British Broadcasting Corporation.
§ Mr. ANSTRUTHER-GRAYIs my hon. Friend aware that, during the recent fire at the Crystal Palace, when the news was broadcast, thousands of people flocked to the spot by motor car and otherwise, and caused serious interference, and will he bring that point to the attention of the British Broadcasting Corporation?
§ Sir W. WOMERSLEYI am aware that crowds did flock to the fire, but I am also aware that, in the broadcast issued by the British Broadcasting Corporation, the following statement was made:
Fire engines are still making all speed to the spot and we suggest that, in view of the difficulties confronting the police, people should not go to the fire and so make matters worse for them. In any case, cars cannot get near the scene.
Mr. ANSTRUTH ER-GRAYIs not the best way to prevent people going to the fire not to tell them that it is burning?
§ Sir W. WOMERSLEYMy hon. Friend must realise that this fire could be seen for a few miles.