HC Deb 26 February 1959 vol 600 cc1272-4
25. Mr. Edelman

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what measures he has taken to prevent confusion in the civil defence services following the bogus news report issued on commercial television on 20th February which stated that the civil defence services were being mobilised.

Miss Hornsby-Smith

My right hon. Friend is assured that no statement in respect of mobilisation of the civil defence services was made in this broadcast, and he has not heard of any confusion in those services.

Mr. Edelman

Will the hon. Lady study the text of the broadcast in which it was stated that civil defence services were being mobilised? Apart from the damage done by this irresponsible broadcast to many sufferers from cardiac troubles and nervous disorders, is it not the case that, because of this broadcast, there is likely to be confusion in the event of any real emergency? Are there any sanctions under the existing law which may be imposed or, if not, will the hon. Lady consult her right hon. Friend the Home Secretary in order to see whether the Television Act, 1954, can be amended or the powers of the I.T.A. strengthened to prevent such an incident occurring again?

Miss Hornsby-Smith

The content of the second part of the hon. Gentleman's supplementary question is a matter for my right hon. Friend the Postmaster-General. In fairness, I should say that I understand the words employed in the broadcast were the civil defence authorities have ordered traffic and pedestrians off the streets which does not constitute a mobilization notice.

Mr. Gordon Walker

Is not a programme of this sort equivalent to a bogus fire alarm, and is it not equally liable to prosecution? Should not this matter be looked at again, as it is so highly irresponsible? Does not it come, by analogy, within the scope of those cases in which normally there would be a prosecution?

Miss Hornsby-Smith

There is another Question on the Order Paper addressed to my right hon. Friend the Postmaster-General relating to this matter. I do not think I can add anything to the reply which I have given.

Dame Florence Horsbrugh

Does not my hon. Friend consider that some of the questions asked by hon. Members opposite are likely to cause more concern and alarm than anything seen on television?

Mr. Edelman

In view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I shall endeavour to raise the matter on the Adjournment as quickly as possible.