HC Deb 05 March 1946 vol 420 cc183-4
67. Squadron-Leader Sir Gifford Fox

asked the Assistant Postmaster-General, as representing the Ministry of Information, if he will give a list of all premises held by the B.B.C., indicating whether requisitioned or not; the total annual cost; the number of persons living there; and the capital cost for conversion during the war years in each case.

The Assistant Postmaster-General (Mr. Burke)

The B.B.C. at present hold some 217 premises at home and overseas of which 13 are requisitioned and 5 are on requisitioned land. The total annual cost of these premises is £484,000. This figure does not include the rent and rates of requisitioned premises which are of the order of £100,000. The number of persons living on these premises is 760. Details of conversion costs during the war years are not at present available.

68. Sir G. Fox

asked the Assistant Postmaster-General, as representing the Ministry of Information, the maximum number of country houses held by the B.B.C. during the war years, the number held at present; and how much of the recent 10s. increase in the cost of wireless licences is due to the cost of these places.

Mr. Burke

The total number of country houses held by the B.B.C. during the war years was 21. The number held at present is 13. The cost of these premises was not a factor in the decision to increase the licence fee.

Sir G. Fox

Is the Minister aware that a number of these country houses are in my constituency, and that their upkeep is very expensive? How much of this 10s. increase in the wireless licence is represented by that cost?

Mr. Burke

I have just said the increase is not due to the cost of these places but is for contemplated improvements. I am aware that the hon. and gallant Member asked questions about the premises in his district before.