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9/27/40
INTERVIEWER: Does this mean, Mr. Chairman, that the Federal Govern¬
ment will take over radio communication bodily in event of war or presidential proclamation that an emergency exists?
CHAIRMAN FLY: No, that is not my understanding. On the contrary,
it seems obvious that program service should continue pretty much as at present. After all, that is the American system of broadcasting, and distinguishes it from the situation abroad, where broadcasting has degenerated to a system of propaganda, and television has been "blacked out", amateurs rubbed out, and research and progress retarded for more years than we may yet realize. Such chaotic conditions as regards communications must not invade the United States. For one thing, our Government does not want to interfere with radio broadcasting any more than is necessary for the national protection. Likewise, it is expedient to preserve intact the present linking up of radio stations throughout the land. This is a large country, and the advantage of efficient and instantaneous communication throughout the 48 States and possessions is essentially important.
International communications are likewise important.
Of course, I do not mean to imply that, under actual emergency, the Government might not temporarily en¬ list particular radio outlets for military purposes, and in the extreme picture, temporarily shut down, say, seaboard transmission which might serve as a beacon to an enemy in event of air raids. Also, in an actual emergency, the Government would undoubtedly require certain periods in which to broadcast official bulletins and other public announcements. But that would not necessitate taking over broadcasting facilities bodily. The broadcasters stand anxious and willing to lend their facilities and give time to the nation at stated periods or on other occasions when such need arises.
INTERVIEWER: From what you say, Chairman Fly, I am led to assume
that in the defense picture you are receiving the cooperation of the industry.
CHAIRMAN FLY: We most assuredly are, I am delighted to report.
Furthermore, this collaborative spirit is reflected in all fields of communication. It not only per¬ meates the broadcasting industry, but extends through¬ out the commercial fields, and into the domain of the amateurs. You must realize that the amateurs consti¬ tute a valuable source of supply of operators and other experts for the military and other services in time of war.