M. OF I. TALKS
Sm,—Who is responsible for the talks given by speakers under the
n auspices of the Ministry of Information? A recent address almost suggests a Fifth Columnist at work. The speaker, as reported in a local paper, defined the " fundamental differences" between Democracy and Dictator- ship as follows: " In Democracy the community existed to benefit the needs of the individual. In Dictatorship production must be regulated as much as possible for the common good." I don't know what is meant by " benefit the needs " ; but the comparison used suggests that there is little to choose between Democracy and Dictatorship. Many good Democrats want to regulate production " as much as possible for the common good," and it is arguable that this is essential for any democratic country, at least as regards the necessities of life. Again, " One was for the individual, the other for the State." This suggests that the speaker has confused " the common good " and " the State." In Nazi Germany production has certainly been regulated in the interests of the State—and of many big industrialists, too—but where is the evidence that this has been done " for the common good "?
d On foreign affairs the speaker was no less inept. These " could no longer be ignored "—why?—" because of radio, films and headlines "I— not, apparently, because what happens elsewhere is of importance to this country. Space forbids further quotations, but such speeches—not only ignoring the deeper issues and misrepresenting others, but giving no positive or inspiring content to the idea of Democracy—are they not, Sir, h. wholly pernicious? If they have any effect, is it not a lowering of public morale? (Less than twelve persons heard this particular address. Are lectures at all a suitable means of publicity? Cannot more and better films, as propaganda for Democracy, be made?) Of course, the
It newspaper report may give a wrong impression ; but unless it is a g deliberate misrepresentation, it probably gives roughly the impression left on the audience. The place and speaker shall be nameless, but I enclose details for your information.—Yours, &c., DEMOCRAT.
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