§ 45. Mr. Hamiltonasked the Prime Minister how many broadcasts he has made in his official capacity in the last three months ; how many such broadcasts have been made by other Cabinet Ministers in the same period ; and what were the subjects covered by such talks.
§ The Prime Minister (Sir Anthony Eden)Apart from news interviews, I have made one broadcast on the Suez Canal situation. My right hon. and learned Friend the Foreign Secretary has also made one on the same subject and one on the occasion of United Nations Day. He has also taken part in a discussion programme.
§ Mr. HamiltonCan the right hon. Gentleman say with whom the initiative lies in effecting these broadcasts? Secondly, will these talks count as party political broadcasts, because there is—[HON. MEMBERS : "Oh."]—indeed there-is—a feeling in the country that they have been used for that end. Is he aware that if this abuse of the B.B.C. continues the Government are playing with fire?
§ The Prime MinisterI hardly think so. The answer to the hon. Gentleman has enabled him to elicit how few broadcasts there have been. Of course, there are opportunities—and rightly so—for hon. Members opposite also to indulge in these practices if they feel that they have to. As to who originates the suggestion, it is sometimes from one quarter and sometimes from another. I can only assure the hon. Gentleman that I never originate it myself if I can possibly help it.
§ Mr. WoodburnI take it that this also includes television broadcasts. Is the Prime Minister aware that they sounded, more like apologies than statements?
§ The Prime MinisterI should be ruled out of order by you. Mr. Speaker, if I expressed an opinion in this matter.
§ Mr. BellengerDoes the Prime Minister consider himself and his colleagues bound by the 14-day rule in such talks as much as any other hon. Member of this House?
§ The Prime MinisterMinisterial broadcasts, from whatever party, are happily exempt.