– in the House of Commons at on 21 February 1940.
Mr Reginald Sorensen
, Leyton West
asked the Prime Minister whether, in the distribution of propaganda and information to the German people by aeroplane, broadcasting and other means, he has included, and will include, statements concerning the desirable principles of peace and international reconstruction as advocated by the Labour party?
Mr R.A. Butler
, Saffron Walden
Full prominence is being given in the B.B.C. German programmes to the views of the Labour party, including those expressed in the recent manifesto. The right hon. Gentleman the Leader of the Opposition and other hon. Members opposite have broadcast to Germany, and arrangements are now in progress for a series of broadcasts by Trades Union Council leaders. The sense of the Labour manifesto is, also, being conveyed to Germany by other means at our disposal.
Mr Reginald Sorensen
, Leyton West
Do I take it that the right hon. Gentleman and his Government agree that it is highly desirable that Socialists and others in Germany should be fully acquainted with the proposals of the Labour party with regard to peace?
Mr R.A. Butler
, Saffron Walden
If we did not we would not take such elaborate steps.
Mr George Strauss
, Lambeth North
Does it mean that the Government accept these proposals?
Mr R.A. Butler
, Saffron Walden
No; the Government are always very cautious.
The "Leader of the Opposition" is head of "Her Majesty's Official Opposition". This position is taken by the Leader of the party with the 2nd largest number of MPs in the Commons.