WHY NOT USE RADIO?

Radio Record, Volume V, Issue 20, 27 November 1931, Page 4

WHY NOT USE RADIO?

CAA TTR AOD f daily Press at the present time is full of political speeches anc reports. That is a necessary concomitant of a general election. The rush movetnents of various leaders throughout the country are also recorded. Trains, motors, and even aeroplanes are under toll te provide rapid transport. That activity is creditable ‘as an indicatior of the desire to make the fullest contact with the electorates. But perusal of the record of this frenzied transport prompts the pertinent query: Why not use radio? We are aware that the license issued to the Radio Broadcasting Company forbids the use of radio for political purposes. On general lines that regulation is sound. All genera! regulations, however, are subject at times to deserving exceptions. The case of a getieral election is such an exception. In Britain recently radio played a most important part in the momentous election held there. Without any frenzied travelling, hut speaking quietly and calmly from the couch at his own fireside, the Chancellor of the Exchequer. Mr. Philip Snowden (now Viscount Snowden) was able to overcom« his crippling physical disability and speak effectively and powerfully to the vast radio audience of Britain. All party leaders were giver the privilege of expounding their case to listeners and electors. Their schedule was atranged fairly and equitably. Fair treatment was accorded all, and the electors benefited by a first-hand exposition of the issues of the policy upon which they were asked to judge. see no reason why New Zealand should not use radio as well. This election is as momentous to us in many ways as Britain’s election was to her. We are confronted with vital issues. The electors must decide essential policies. Many electors, particularly those in backblock areas, have not the opportunity of hearing those policies expounded by their chief exponents, the leaders of the various parties. They would appreciate considered and reasoned addresses over the air as a means of acquiring information upon the issues before them and determining their reactions.

[HE daily Press records that at numerous meetings leaders have been _ subjected to heckling and disorder to such a-degree as almost to prohibit a fair statement of the case being presented. Radio conquers that disability. Radio reaches without interruption an_audience immeastirably vaster than can be attained in any hall in the Dominion. In neglecting to use radio we consider our political leaders are overlooking an important social amenity. While seven years ago, when the Company’s license was granted, the precaution of restricting political use of the air may have been advisable, that condition does not exist to-day in the light of further experience and appreciation of the power of wise regtilations, We sincerely trust that, under the new regime that will be embarked upon on January 1, the necessary elasticity will be available to permit of the radio system being used on occasions of national importance such as allowing the electors of the Dominion to have the benefit of first-hand exposition of their policies from the various party leaders. .