HC Deb 28 June 1979 vol 969 cc623-4
1. Mr. Hooley

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will call for a report from the Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis upon the arrangements made with the broadcasting authorities relating to the vetting of programmes prior to broadcasting.

The Secretary of State for the Home Department (Mr. William Whitelaw)

This is a matter for the Commissioner. He has informed me that an understanding was recently reached between the Metropolitan Police and the BBC which is designed to ensure that the fullest consultation takes place in the preparation of programmes on potentially sensitive subjects.

Mr. Hooley

Is there any intention to publish the terms of the so-called agree- ment or code? Is it correct that the Metropolitan Police have vetoed the export of the series "Law and Order"? Will the Home Secretary unequivocally condemn any attempt by any police force to veto, control or censor any programme on the BBC?

Mr. Whitelaw

It should be made perfectly clear that the final editorial responsibility for any programme on this or any other matter rests with the BBC, and must continue to do so.

Mr. Geoffrey Johnson Smith

I have every sympathy with the police in this matter, but is my right hon. Friend aware that many of us will view with considerable apprehension any development or extension of such arrangements?

Mr. Whitelaw

Of course, I appreciate that. Needless to say, it would not apply to straightforward current affairs features on police work. It could apply only, as I understand it, to a particular programme to which the police had been invited to make a contribution.

Mrs. Dunwoody

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that that, in effect, is exactly what the BBC has said that it would not allow? It does not allow political censorship, quite rightly, and it is extremely dangerous that the Metropolitan Police should even imagine that they have a role to play in this matter. Does not the right hon. Gentleman agree?

Mr. Whitelaw

As regards current affairs and news programmes, I entirely agree with the hon. Lady. Where any organisation is asked to make a specific contribution to a programme, surely it has a right to take part in consultation and discussion.