HC Deb 19 June 1939 vol 348 cc1805-6
53. Mr. Gallacher

asked the Postmaster-General how many complaints were received by his Department in the 12 months to the last convenient date concerning wireless interference caused by neon-sign installations; and whether any action is contemplated to compel owners of these installations to fit interference-suppression devices?

The Postmaster-General (Major Tryon)

About a thousand complaints were received during the year 1938 concerning interference with wireless reception caused by neon-sign installations. In most of these cases the owners of the installations agreed to fit interference-suppression devices, although there is at present no legal power to compel them to do so. Inquiries regarding the possible scope and operation of a new Wireless Telegraphy Bill to deal, inter alia, with the question of electrical interference with wireless reception are being actively pursued. The problem is however one of great complexity, involving consultation with many interests which would be affected; and some time must elapse before these consultations can be completed.

Mr. Gallacher

In view of the fact that many of the people who have licences are getting very bad results, will the Minister speed up any negotiations that are taking place in connection with the legalising of the position?

Major Tryon

I shall be glad to get the matter concluded as soon as possible.

Mr. Poole

Will the right hon. and gallant Gentleman consider the general position here and take into account the fact that one of the prime offenders is the Central Electricity Board with their high tension cables?

Major Tryon

That is one of the points which makes the matter a difficult one with which to deal,