HC Deb 08 December 1971 vol 827 cc1279-81
15. Mr. Evelyn King

asked the Minister of Posts and Telecommunications if, in accordance with Article 18(2) of the Licence and Agreement, he will direct that the British Broadcasting Corporation shall include in its annual report the uncensored findings of the Queen's Counsel appointed by them to inquire into allegations of bribery within the Corporation.

Mr. Chataway

I take it my hon. Friend is referring to Article 18(2) of the B.B.C. Charter. I do not think such a direction would be desirable. The B.B.C. tells me it has not yet received Mr. Neill's report. When it does, it will consider what, if any, public statement it would be appropriate to make.

Mr. King

Will my right hon. Friend bear in mind that these allegations were made nearly a year ago? In February last the Government themselves appointed a distinguished Queen's Counsel to investigate the matter. In fairness to those who are implicated, having regard to the fact that the investigation commenced in February last, is it not time that a public statement was made?

Mr. Chataway

I am sure the Governors will take note of that observation, but I understand that police investigations are not yet complete.

Mr. St. John-Stevas

Without prejudice to the results of this inquiry, would my right hon. Friend agree that the reputation of the B.B.C.'s financial integrity is unrivalled anywhere else in the world?

Mr. Chataway

Yes, Sir; I think it can be claimed of British broadcasting as a whole that charges of corruption are extremely few.

Mr. Pardoe

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the hon. Member for Dorset, South (Mr. Evelyn King) over a period of years has been conducting a one-man vendetta against the integrity of the B.B.C.? Will the right hon. Gentleman make sure that the influence of the ethical and cultural standards of South Dorset is kept outside the British Broadcasting Corporation?

Mr. Chataway

I would certainly not accept those remarks about my hon. Friend. Indeed, I think it to be extremely important for the healthy functioning of our system that the Governors should be told, and told clearly, what sections of the community like and do not like about their programmes.

Mr. King

May I assure my right hon. Friend how gratified I was and, indeed, flattered to be joined in my observations by the right hon. Member for Orkney and Shetland (Mr. Grimond), the former Leader of the Liberal Party.

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