§ 13. Colonel Stoddart-Scottasked the Postmaster-General if the Holme Moss television station is yet completed; when it is to be opened; when it will provide a regular programme; and what area will be covered by this station.
§ Mr. Ness EdwardsThe installation of equipment at this station is virtually complete and final adjustments are being made. The B.B.C. hopes to start preliminary test transmissions this month; and later to introduce test patterns to assist viewers and radio dealers in the setting up and adjustment of receivers. The B.B.C. hopes also to begin a regular programme service early in October. The service area of the station is expected to include most of Lancashire and the East and West Ridings of Yorkshire, substantial parts of the North Riding, Lincolnshire, Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire and the whole of the counties of Cheshire and Flint.
§ Colonel Stoddart-ScottWho is going to declare the station open?
§ Mr. ChetwyndCan my right hon. Friend say whether there will be adequate reception in the Tees-side area from this station?
§ Mr. Ness EdwardsNo, Sir. I could not prophesy as to that.
Mr. Charles Ian Orr-EwingCan the Minister say why it takes three months to provide programmes after testing signals have been radiated? Is it due to delay in providing land lines or radio links by the right hon. Gentleman's Department?
§ Mr. Ness EdwardsThe link is by land lines. There is no difficulty about that. 2292 The land lines must be there for the test transmissions, and the land lines are in order.
§ Mr. Ness EdwardsI understand the delay is in perfecting technical arrangements at the transmitter.