§ 46. Mr. Jannerasked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the fact that the 953 B.B.C. Charter has not previously been renewed without a thorough investigation by a committee of inquiry and that important changes in broadcasting policy and technique have taken place during the war, he will now give an undertaking that before the current Charter is renewed an independent investigation, in the public interest, will be made by a competent and representative committee.
§ The Prime Minister (Mr. Attlee)No, Sir. His Majesty's Government have given the fullest consideration to this matter and have decided that no independent investigation is necessary before the Charter is renewed.
§ Mr. JannerIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is considerable anxiety in relation to the B.B.C. and will he take steps to reconsider the decision?
§ The Prime MinisterWe shall come to a decision. I think that is the best way to get rid of the anxiety.
§ Mr. ButcherWill this House have an opportunity to discuss the matter?
§ The Prime MinisterYes, Sir, and the hon. Member will realise that the Charter comes up for renewal.
§ Captain CrookshankDoes the right hon. Gentleman realise that the mere fact that it is a Government decision does not automatically allay suspicion or even disarm all criticism, and would he not reconsider this, because it would ease the passage of the new Charter if it were founded on some sort of inquiry?
§ The Prime MinisterI think the right hon. and gallant Gentleman knows that this matter was fully considered by the last Government and this Government, and the general view was that investigation was needed.