HC Deb 03 July 1940 vol 362 cc848-9W
Captain Plugge

asked the Postmaster-General what foreign languages are still permitted to be used over the telephone; and whether Germans are still allowed to talk in German?

Mr. W. S. Morrison

The use of foreign languages on the telephone is not prohibited and German may be used without interference. Serious consideration has been given to the possibility of prohibition of foreign languages on the telephone from the outbreak of war but there are inherent difficulties in regard to the application of such a prohibition where calls are completed over the automatic system.

Captain Anstruther-Gray

asked the Postmaster-General whether, in conjunction with the Home Secretary, he has yet decided to curtail the telephone facilities of enemy aliens, especially with regard to the use of foreign languages?

Mr. Morrison

Careful consideration has been given to this question but there are inherent difficulties in the application of such a prohibition in view of the widespread use of the automatic telephone system.