BLOOD SPORTS AND THE B.B.C.
SIR,—I do not think there is any very substantial point at issue between Mr. E. G. Barlow and myself. I am no fonder of blood sports than he is, but I do not believe that the banning of all mention of them on the air would legitimately advance his cause. Restriction of free discussion is nearly always wrong. For this reason I agree with him that it is both stupid and dishonest for the B.B.C. to refuse to allow the opponents of blood sports an opportunity of stating their views—stupid because the suppression of free speech is always stupid, and dishonest because the B.B.C., as an impartial, State-controlled organisation, has a duty to pro- vide for the ventilation of all views and opinions. But, like all bureau- cracies, it is terrified of controversy ; suppression saves so much trouble. There are, however, some signs of a broadening outlook on the part of the B.B.C., and one of these days, I hope, Mr. Barlow and his friends may be allowed to broadcast their views. At the same time, of course, the representatives of the Field Sports Society and the Masters of Fox- hounds Association should also be allowed to broadcast theirs.—Yours faithfully, L. C. LLOYD. Shackerley, Wenlock Road, Shrewsbury.
Previous page
