HC Deb 23 July 1952 vol 504 cc521-3
33. Mr. G. Thomas

asked the Assistant Postmaster-General what mechanical or technical difficulties prevent the opening of the Wenvoe television station in time to transmit currently a film of the Welsh National Eisteddfod.

Mr. Gammans

This is a matter for the B.B.C., but the Corporation informs me that it cannot undertake to open before the 15th August because time is required for testing and other preparatory work. I am glad to say, however, that the Corporation has made arrangements for a film of the Eisteddfod to be transmitted from Wenvoe on 16th August.

Mr. Thomas

Is the Minister aware that the Welsh people are very disappointed with the attitude of the B.B.C. on this question and that they feel that he has not shown much energy in trying to hurry them up? Is he further aware that tests have been conducted already at Wenvoe, that they are highly successful and we see no reason why, with a little energy and enterprise, the Eisteddfod should not be televised concurrently with the event?

Mr. Gammans

I think that the hon. Member knows that if it had been possible to open the station at Wenvoe before 15th August it would not have been feasible to have televised the Eisteddford direct, for it would have cost a very considerable sum of money and would have meant the erection of a number of stations on the hills between Aberystwyth and Wenvoe.

Mr. Gower

Is my hon. Friend aware that there is truly a very widespread desire in Wales that the broadcasts of the National Eisteddfod of Wales, as the premier national cultural festival of the Principality, should be synchronised with the event? Is he aware that there have been reports that there are absolutely no technical barriers to this being done and that it has been reported in the national newspaper of Wales that a prominent member of the B.B.C. staff admitted that there was no technical barrier?

Mr. Gammans

I am afraid that I cannot comment on those reports. I know that it would have pleased all hon. Members who represent Welsh constituencies if it had been possible to open the station earlier, and I am assured by the B.B.C. that, much as they have tried, it is not technically possible to do so.

Mr. Thomas

In view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I shall endeavour to raise this matter on the Adjournment before the Recess, because I feel that if the Minister—

Mr. Speaker rose

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