HC Deb 12 July 1950 vol 477 cc1333-4
9. Mr. Deedes

asked the Postmaster-General what progress has been made towards the setting up of an advisory committee in accordance with the provisions of the Wireless Telegraphy Act, 1949; and when regulations to cover electro-magnetic interference with television sets may be expected.

Mr. Ness Edwards

Separate advisory committees to advise me about the requirements which might be prescribed in regulations dealing with different classes of equipment are being set up. I hope to be able to announce the names very shortly.

Mr. Deedes

Is the Minister aware that there has been considerable delay in setting up the committee and producing the regulations? Has he any idea when these regulations may be expected as they were promised, I think, more than a year ago?

Mr. Ness Edwards

This is a matter of very great controversy. We have the best experts, selected by the Electrical Institute, now on a panel, from which a committee will be set up and we must give them a chance to consult all interests so that no mistake may be made in the regulations, which I hope will obtain the support of the House.

Mr. C. I. Orr-Ewing

Will the right hon. Gentleman make sure that amateur radio operators, who number 14,000 and pay £2 for their licences, are given representation on that committee, because at the moment they feel a sense of injustice that they have no claim to Post Office help when interference is caused to them?

Mr. Ness Edwards

I will bear that in mind.