HG Wells on the Future | BBC broadcasts from the father of science fiction
Writtenin
1931
This memo shows that concerns about HG Wells expressing controversial opinions in his upcoming live broadcast about Russia were so strong that they were taken to BBC Director General John Reith. In the notes subsequently hand-written onto this memo, Director of Talks Hilda Matheson is asked by Reith to obtain written evidence of Wells's commitment to impartiality.
This radio broadcast, 'Russia in the Melting Pot' took place in July 1931 and is available to hear as part of this collection.
Hilda Matheson is credited with introducing the concept of having a formal script for radio broadcasts.
HG Wells on the failings of Stalin's economic 'Five Year Plan'.
Our economic and political lives are 'out of gear'.
How the motor car serves as a warning to us all.
HG Wells challenges the idea of 'Britain for the British'.
A talk on the worldwide community of English speakers.
HG Wells welcomes the former president of Czechoslovakia.
How the printed word has reached the world's entire population.
HG Wells declares that it's time to 'face up to your inheritance'.
The newspaper is 'dead as mutton', says HG Wells.
An invitation to HG Wells to go on air for the first time.
HG Wells agrees to speak about world peace.
Wells reassures the BBC that his broadcast will be objective.
Will HG Wells's broadcast require 'toning down'?
Preparations for a broadcast by HG Wells.

Concerns that Wells has not submitted a manuscript go right to the top.
Wells makes a commitment to objectivity.
Wells responds to an invitation to speak about evolution.
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