§ 13. Mr. Walter Fletcherasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what steps have been taken, or are proposed to be taken, and what money has been spent, or is proposed to be spent, in connection with developing the Hong Kong Radio Station in order to extend its range, particularly throughout China.
37. Mr. Scott-Elliotasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what steps he is taking to strengthen the radio station at Hong Kong.
§ Mr. Rees-WilliamsThe broadcasting coverage of the Far East, including China, is the function of the B.B.C's. station in Singapore, not of Radio Hong Kong. The possibility is being examined of an increase in power for Hong Kong's medium frequency broadcasting service; I am not able to give an estimate of the cost which may be involved.
§ Mr. FletcherIs not the hon. Gentleman aware that the Malayan station is going to take a long time to complete and will certainly not be effective in reaching North China, and possibly not Central China, and that, therefore, the Hong Kong station in present circumstances should be given priority?
§ Mr. Rees-WilliamsNo. I do not accept some of the allegations of the hon. Gentleman. I am informed that the Singapore station will be very effective.
§ Mr. GammansDoes the hon. Gentleman realise that his statement that the B.B.C. has the responsibility for Singapore is utter nonsense, and contains just about as much sense as if he said that the responsibility for Canadian broadcasting was that of the B.B.C. in this country? Cannot something be done to increase the power of the station at Hong Kong?
§ Mr. Rees-WilliamsWe are doing that.
§ Commander NobleIs the Minister aware of the importance of developing the station at Hong Kong?
§ Mr. Rees-WilliamsI am well aware of that and we fully realise the importance of increasing the power of the Hong Kong station.