§ 48. Mr. Quintin Hoggasked the Prime Minister if it was with his permission that the President of the Board of Trade broadcast to America on 31st July; and what regulations are to govern broadcasts by Members of His Majesty's Government on foreign and British radio networks.
§ The Prime MinisterThis broadcast was given over an American network to an American audience. I understand my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary was consulted. The general question of political broadcasts will require further consideration between all those concerned.
§ Mr. HoggHaving regard to the fact that articles in newspapers, both British and foreign, by Ministers have been subject to careful restriction by Prime Ministers in the past, will the right hon. Gentleman consider making a statement in the immediate future about the desirability of action on the same lines in regard to broadcasts?
§ The Prime MinisterThe same rules with regard to Ministerial broadcasts as were effective during the Coalition Government are in force now, and I do not see any reason for objection in this particular case.
§ Mr. HoggIs it not a fact that those rules were specially designed for a state of war and that we have now returned to a more normal situation?
§ The Prime MinisterI might point out that this broadcast occurred while we were still at war I have already mentioned that the matter of broadcasts in time of peace must be considered by all concerned, including of course the Opposition parties.