§ 30. Mr. Charles R. Morrisasked the Minister of Posts and Telecommunications what proposals he has now received from the British Broadcasting Corporation and the Independent Television Authority for the introduction of round-the-clock television programmes.
§ Mr. ChatawayNone, Sir: although, following my announcement on 19th January that I have ended the restrictions on hours of broadcasting, the broadcasting authorities do not need my approval for any such proposals.—[Vol. 829, c. 477.]
§ Mr. MorrisWill the Minister bear in mind that, against the background of the announced intention of the I.T.A. to produce programmes extending over 105 hours per week, and if indeed we are to have breakfast-time television, reasonable and responsible people will expect the B.B.C. to be in a position to compete with such programmes? Will he bear in mind that that might well add to the financial difficulties facing the B.B.C., despite the increased revenue from colour television licences? Will he assist the B.B.C. in the difficulties with which it may be confronted as a result of this development?
§ Mr. ChatawayI do not accept that the B.B.C. could legitimately be criticised in any way if it did not match all the hours that I.T.V. broadcasts. After all, there are two B.B.C. channels and only one I.T.V. channel. It does not seem to me that fair competition would in any way be upset by that arrangement.
§ Mr. RichardHas the right hon. Gentleman yet received any proposals from the B.B.C. with regard the financial effect that the removal of the restriction on hours might have upon it? If so, when is he likely to give us the answer?
§ Mr. ChatawayIt has not put any such proposals to me, and I should not expect any.
§ Mr. Donald StewartOn a point of order. In view of the Minister's unsatisfactory reply to my Question No. 7, I beg to give notice—
§ Mr. SpeakerOrder. The hon. Gentleman is too late.