HC Deb 24 July 1940 vol 363 cc766-7
15. Mr. Stokes

asked the Minister of Information whether he is aware that, on 14th July, the British Broadcasting Corporation gave a broadcast description of the air fight over the Straits of Dover; whether official permission was given for this broadcast to be made; and whether he will secure that, in future, the public taste shall not be offended by broadcasts of war operations in the manner of a sporting commentary?

Mr. Cooper

The answers to the first two parts of the Question are in the affirmative. With regard to the last part of the Question, I am aware that there was considerable division of opinion as to the taste of the broadcast in question, but I am not prepared to give an undertaking of the nature suggested by my hon. Friend.

Mr. Bernays

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this broadcast gave the public increased confidence in the ability of the Air Force to defend these shores and showed that we are not a nation of "Cissies"?

Mr. Stokes

While agreeing with what the right hon. Gentleman said, may I ask whether he is aware that the nature of this broadcast is regarded among many people as being according to pagan and not Christian principles?

Captain Vyvyan Adams

Did not this broadcast precisely and brilliantly depict the spirit of our anti-aircraft defenders which is so vital to our success?

Mr. Logan

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that in the principal theatre in Liverpool where the broadcast was given the audience responded right loyally?