HC Deb 11 December 1950 vol 482 c124W
Major Hicks-Beach

asked the Lord President of the Council what instructions are given to the speakers from the Central Office of Information regarding incorporating political propaganda in their speeches when speaking on its behalf; and whether such instructions are written or verbal.

Mr. H. Morrison

The General Note for Lecturers says:

  1. "1. So that the Lecture Service may be safeguarded against any suggestion of bias, no lecturer whose activities would reasonably lead the public to associate him or her with any political party will be regarded as eligible for membership of any panel.
  2. 2. It is a condition of engagement, and a tradition of the Lecture Service, that lecturers must not introduce any party political issues or show political bias in the presentation of their subjects. This of course also applies to the question or discussion period which may follow the talk. Expressions of personal opinion on any controversial issues must not be made.
  3. 3. The members of the lecturers' panels are proud of the reputation which has been established for accuracy, objectivity and punctuality over a period of ten years, with audiences of all types throughout the country."

Written instructions, of which I am sending the hon. Member a copy, are given to lecturers as a condition of engagement.