§ 17. Mr. Manderasked the Minister if Information the principles governing the playing of Allied National Anthems by the British Broadcasting Corporation on Sunday evenings; and the reasons for the discrimination between one Ally and another?
Mr. CooperThe B.B.C. play the National Anthems of those countries who have been our Allies in the war and whose citizens are fighting at our side. If the Question is prompted by the fact that the Abyssinian National Anthem has not yet been played, I would inform the hon. Member this is because at the outbreak of war no properly constituted Government of Abyssinia existed. As soon as the Emperor has reached his capital, which we hope will be in the near future, the Abyssinian National Anthem will be played with the others.
§ Mr. ManderCan the Minister say on what principle the Luxemburg National Anthem was played on three occasions?
Mr. CooperThe Luxemburg people are fighting to the best of their ability on our side. They had a Government which was compelled to flee before the Germans, and I hope that one day it will be finally restored to its rightful place.
§ Mr. ManderBut why ration them to three?
§ Mr. George GriffithsWhy could we not have the Wolverhampton National Anthem?
Mr. CooperIn reply to the hon. Gentleman the Member for East Wolverhampton (Mr. Mander), there are a great many National Anthems, and it is under consideration whether it would not be a good plan to play a few in turn.
§ Mr. MaxtonWhat about saving time and playing the "Internationale"?