HC Deb 02 December 1942 vol 385 cc1147-8
38. Mr. G. Strauss

asked the Minister of Information whether he is aware that the British Broadcasting Corporation broadcasts to Hungary fail to comment on anti-government activities; that no comment has been made on the 11 Serbs and Magyars recently sentenced to death for sabotage; that no mention was made of the trials opened on 6th November against 60 persons charged with publishing and distributing subversive literature; and will he take steps to see that this service takes a positive line in condemning Horthy and others now collaborating with the Nazis and shows sympathy with all anti-Axis activities in Hungary designed to weaken or destroy the Horthy régime?

Mr. Bracken

The sentence of death pronounced on the 11 Serbs and Magyars was reported in both Hungarian bulletins on 31st October. The fact spoke for itself and no comment seemed necessary. As regards the trial of the 60 persons charged with publishing and distributing subversive literature, it was thought preferable to reserve comment until the trial was over. The sentences were pronounced on 24th November and comment was broadcast on the following day. I am satisfied that our Hungarian broadcasts condemn the policy of the Horthy Government and are in full sympathy with anti-Axis activities in Hungary.

Mr. Strauss

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that these are only two instances of where there have been anti-Horthy and anti-Axis activities in Hungary and they have either not been commented on at all in the broadcasts of this country or just given a very few words; and in view of the generally unsatisfactory attitude of this Department of the B.B.C. in this direction will he go into this matter very carefully?

Mr. Bracken

I certainly will do so, but I must remind the hon. Member that the B.B.C. have to broadcast to 40 or 50 countries every day, and that they really cannot give as much space as they would like to every topic.

Mr. Moelwyn Hughes

Is it not a fact that the person in control of this section of the B.B.C. is a gentleman who is known to be socially friendly to members of the Horthy régime?

Mr. Bracken

I know nothing about the social arrangements of any member of the B.B.C.

Mr. Hughes

Will the right hon. Gentleman find out?