§ 30. Mr. Priceasked the Minister of Information why he has decided only to support the rally of the National Council for British-Soviet Unity on the occasion of the anniversary of the Anglo-Soviet Alliance; and whether he will on similar occasions in future consult with other bodies interested in Anglo-Soviet friendship?
§ The Minister of Information (Mr. Brendan Bracken)At the request of the Bishop of Chelmsford and the hon. and gallant Member for Ayr Burghs (Sir T. Moore), the Ministry agreed to assist this rally by giving advice and arranging for a film record of the proceedings to be taken for sending to Russia. In answer to the second part of the Question, the Ministry is always willing to consider similar requests from other bodies and to give assistance where it is in the public interest to do so.
§ Mr. PriceIs the Minister aware that on page 16 of the National Executive's report to the Labour party's conference this body is listed as being under Communist influence, and will he in future consult with his right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Dominions before he makes a similar decision?
§ Mr. BrackenI do not think there is any cause for me to consult my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Dominions. This meeting is fostered by two Conservative Members of this House, by a flock of bishops, by a number of eminent Liberals and by a large number of orthodox Labour people.
§ Major-General Sir Alfred KnoxIs there any similar society in Russia such as "Britain To-day" which is boosting Great Britain and the Anglo-Soviet Alliance? If not will he take steps to secure reciprocity in boosting?
§ Mr. BrackenThere is, of course, a society for cultural relations in Russia, and the Ministry of Information has become responsible for starting a newspaper in Russia. I am not optimistic enough to hope that we can at once fulfil all the desires of my hon. and gallant Friend, but we can try.