§ Mr. GerrardTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many pirate radio stations have been prosecuted in each of the last three years. [99831]
§ Ms HewittIt is the people involved with the pirate radio stations who are prosecuted as the stations themselves are not an identifiable body. Details of prosecutions in the past three years are as follows:
Year Prosecutions Convictions 1997 41 41 1998 53 53 19991 39 39 1To 30 September 1999
§ Mr. GerrardTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what has been the average fine imposed on pirate radio stations where a conviction has been obtained in relation to illegal broadcasting in each of the last three years. [99832]
§ Ms HewittThe average fine imposed on individuals convicted of offences relating to pirate radio broadcasting in each of the last three years is as follows:
134W
Year Average fine £ 1997 272 1998 452 19991 248 1To 30 September 1999
§ Mr. GerrardTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how equipment confiscated from pirate radio stations following convictions in relation to illegal broadcasting is dealt with. [99833]
§ Ms HewittThe vast majority of equipment ordered forfeit by the courts is destroyed to prevent it getting back onto the market.
§ Mr. GerrardTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what action is taken against organisations which(a) advertise on and (b) sponsor pirate radio stations. [99834]
§ Ms HewittIt is an offence contrary to the Wireless Telegraphy Act 1949 to advertise on or sponsor pirate radio stations. If evidence to substantiate such offences can be obtained those involved are prosecuted.
§ Mr. GerrardTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will assess the benefits of(a) paying compensation and (b) giving refunds to community radio stations which are unable to take full advantage of their broadcasting licences because of the actions of pirate radio stations. [99758]
§ Ms HewittWith respect to the Wireless Telegraphy Act, the Agency endeavours to ensure interference-free spectrum for use by legitimate broadcasters. The Agency deals with this by taking direct action against pirate radio stations (928 raids nationally last year). This action is entirely funded by the revenue generated by the WT Act Licence.
The Agency regularly reviews its policies and has considered the issues of compensation and refunds. However, at present, it is felt that direct action is the best way of combating interference and current Agency policy reflects this.