NEXT BRITISH ELECTION

Press, Volume XC, Issue 27277, 18 February 1954, Page 12

NEXT BRITISH ELECTION

Parties Study Effect Of Television (N.Z. Press Association—Copyright) LONDON, February 15 A lament that “television has knocked political meetings flat” is being made by agents of political parties in Britain. The result is that both the Conservative and Labour Parties are drawing up plans to make sure that the fullest use is made of this new medium of entertainment before and during the next election campaign. Conservative headquarters instructed local agents to “plot” television aerials in their districts with the intention of asking owners of sets to invite people without television to “viewing” parties—naturally when Conservative speakers are to be seen and heard. The Labour Party is also drawing up plans which are yet to be announced. •

The Conservative Party chairman (Lord Woolton) has said: “Here is a new instrument that I believe will influence thought a great deal. It is an opportunity for people to listen to and view leading personalities in their party. “We want the public to understand what the Government is doing, and what Conservative means, and I know no better method of doing that than to get the people together in their own homes and have discussion parties.” A point which will have to be watched by both Conservative and Labotir supporters who ask friends to view political programmes is entertainment. By act of Parliament, guests must not be given food or drink during election meetings.