§ 47. Mr. Gammansasked the Prime Minister if he will consider making a personal broadcast to the British people explaining the seriousness of the international situation, appealing for recruits for the Territorial Army and the Civil Defence Service and warning the country against the obvious determination of the Communists to stir up industrial unrest and disrupt the productive effort of the nation.
§ The Prime MinisterHis Majesty's Government do not, of course, underrate the seriousness of the international situation, and I do not think that it is underrated in the country as a whole. I do not, however, consider that the present time is an appropriate one for me to make a personal broadcast.
§ Mr. GammansDoes not the Prime Minister recognise the factor of leadership and inspiration in human affairs? Does he realise that the British people know they are about to go into rough weather and wonder if anyone is on the bridge?
§ The Prime MinisterI think the hon. Member is quite wrong. I think the Debate on Korea, in which speeches were made from all sides of the House, showed perfectly clearly that the House and the Government fully appreciate the significance of the situation.
§ Mr. GammansAll I am asking the Prime Minister is, will he give a lead and inspiration to the British people at this time of crisis?