18 SEPTEMBER 1959, Page 29

1) , arty Political Broadcasts Livin g Among Asians Sir Ian Jacob

George Edinger, David Morris Recognition for the Good Driver Henry Scott Bradshaw, Michael Oxley,

Michael Sherrard

The Control of the Purse' Dr, Paul Einzig Shoppers' Guide R. S. Taylor Falling Prices Edward Bladen Science Fiction Maurice Goldsmith (onservative Funds . Lord Hailshanz Nbise F. E. G. Pirottet PARTY POLITICAL. BROADCASTS Sla,-LNearly every statement of importance in the Pbragraph dealing with party political broadcasts in 'A Spectator's Notebook' in your issue of September 1,1 was inaccurate. The meeting referred to was not between the Whips.' There was no heated discussion. !IBC and ITA representatives were present. The fact I,s that whenever an announcement is made of the Impending dissolution of Parliament, a meeting between the broadcasting authorities and the party leaders takes place in order to settle outstanding questions relating to the election series of broadcasts. l'he meeting on this occasion was expedited at the request of the BBC as quick decisions had to he made about broadcasts in the current annual series which had been booked to take place after the announce- tnent of impending dissolution. To found insults on a series of inaccuracies is Indeed an exercise in squalid journalism,—Yours faithfully,

IAN JACOB

8roaticasting House, WI Director-General book—Editor, Spectator.]

[This letter is referred to in 'A Spectator's Note-