HC Deb 27 July 1943 vol 391 c1386
48. Mr. Douglas

asked the Prime Minister whether he will consider legislation for altering the status and constitution of the British Broadcasting Corporation so as to make a Minister wholly answerable for the activities of this subsidised Corporation?

Mr. Attlee

No, Sir. No such change is contemplated at the present time.

Mr. Douglas

Is my right hon. Friend aware that when complaints are made to the B.B.C. complainants are told that Government policy is being carried out and that when Questions are asked of the Ministry of Information they disclaim responsibility?

Mr. Attlee

While a certain amount of control is necessary during war-time, it has been the endeavour of the Government to keep the B.B.C. as something independent of the Government.

Mr. De la Bère

Is not the whole thing a glorious loophole of evasion?

Sir I. Albery

Is not the right hon. Gentleman aware that the B.B.C. is entirely financed from public funds under the control of the Ministry of Information, and is not the Ministry therefore completely responsible for all actions of the B.B.C.?

Mr. Attlee

No, Sir, the B.B.C. is financed mainly by licences. The position has always been that while, of course, the money comes from the public, a distinction has been made and there has always been an endeavour to keep the B.B.C. something which is separate from a mere Government organisation.

Sir I. Albery

Will the right hon. Gentleman make inquiries into the finances of the B.B.C.?