HC Deb 04 July 1951 vol 489 cc2290-1
10. Mr. J. Langford-Holt

asked the Postmaster-General how many times his advisory committee, set up under the Wireless Telegraphy Act, 1949, has met; what was the last occasion on which it met; and what advice he has received.

Mr. Ness Edwards

The committee considering ignition systems has met four times, the last occasion being 9th April, 1951. The committee considering refrigeration apparatus has met three times, its last meeting being on the 26th February, 1951. There have also been eight meetings of sub-committees. Neither committee has yet submitted a report.

Mr. Langford-Holt

Would the Minister not agree that this is very limited assistance I am asking him to give the television viewer, and could he not do something to hurry up the committee? Is he not aware there is nothing in the Act that prevents his inviting this committee to tender some advice?

Mr. Ness Edwards

I understand that some representations are now under consideration for submission to me. Many of the remedies proposed have already been subjected to experimental tests. It is a highly technical matter, but I am sure that the committee recognises the need for hastening this business.

Mr. Langford-Holt

Is the Minister not aware that the technical complications to which he referred have been known in this country for the last 12 years and have been fully recognised, and that I am only asking him to suppress motor car interference?

Mr. Ness Edwards

The committee is concerned to find a remedy for these things, but I understand that there are still technical difficulties about the drafting of the report.