HC Deb 03 May 1955 vol 540 cc1503-4
37. Mr. Teeling

asked the Secretary of State for War what steps he is taking to make sure that all political broadcasts during the General Election are given in full on overseas services broadcasts wherever the British Army is employed overseas.

Mr. Head

The complete series of political broadcasts which is to be given between 7th and 21st May will be relayed by all stations of the Forces Broadcasting Service at the best listening times. Wide publicity is being given to these arrangements.

Mr. Teeling

Can my right hon. Friend say whether this happened at previous Elections or is this the first time?

Mr. Head

I should not like to say without notice, but to the best of my knowledge it happened at the last Election.

Mr. Woodburn

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether the men are compelled to listen to these broadcasts?

Mr. Head

Listening to these matters is entirely voluntary.

Mr. H. Wilson

Would the right hon. Gentleman say whether the speech last night by the President of the Board of Trade, financed by the Government Hospitality Fund, which was put out as the main item in the B.B.C. news this morning, with heavy political implications, will also be relayed to these Service men?

Mr. Head

I could not answer that question without notice.

Mr. Ede

Will the right hon. Gentleman arrange for the comments of the troops to be broadcast, too?

Mr. Head

I will try to send the right hon. Gentleman a confidential summary afterwards.