§ 53. Mr. Joseph Reevesasked the Prime Minister whether he can now inform the House as to the conditions under which 647 the Charter and licences of the British Broadcasting Corporation will be issued on their expiration at the end of this year, 1951, in the light of the proposals contained in Command Paper No. 8291.
§ The Prime MinisterHis Majesty's Government will make a statement on this subject shortly.
§ Sir Waldron SmithersBefore allowing the Charter to go through, will my right hon. Friend set up an independent committee to inquire into the subversive activities and the Communist policy at present in the B.B.C.?
§ The Prime MinisterI think we could ask for time to examine this matter in our own circle before we make any pronouncement to the House.
§ Mr. Herbert MorrisonWill the right hon. Gentleman say what he means by an examination within his own circle?
§ The Prime MinisterThe right hon. Gentleman must be careful not to misquote. I said "our own circle." It may astonish him to know that by that I meant the Cabinet.