HC Deb 08 March 1927 vol 203 c1043
53. Colonel DAY

asked the Postmaster General whether he has received any requests asking for permission to broadcast pictures by the means of photo-telegraphy; if any experimental tests or demonstrations have been carried out; and, if so, with what result?

The POSTMASTER-GENERAL (Sir William Mitchell-Thomson)

Experimental wireless licences have been issued to several persons to enable them to undertake experimental work in the direction of the broadcasting of both still and moving pictures. Several systems have been suggested, but the matter is not yet out of the experimental stage.

Colonel DAY

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that in Vienna, they are sending out three pictures every evening by photo-telegraphy?

Sir W. MITCHELL-THOMSON

I was not speaking of experiments between different stations of commercial wireless companies but of broadcasting for reception by private individuals. I am aware of the experiment that is being made on the Continent.

Colonel DAY

Has the hon. Gentleman received any request from Mr. Thorne-Baker to carry out experiments with photo-telegraphy on the same system in this country?

Sir W. MITCHELL-THOMSON

The Thorne-Baker process is one of the processes which are working experimentally at present.

Colonel DAY

Are they not successful?