HC Deb 22 July 1953 vol 518 cc366-7
36. Mr. Hobson

asked the Assistant Postmaster-General if he will make available a complete schedule of frequency allocations in both the very high frequency and ultra high frequency spectrums.

Mr. Gammans

The international allocations of frequencies in the very high frequency and ultra high frequency parts of the radio spectrum are published in the Atlantic City Radio Regulations (1947). I will send the hon. Member a copy of this document for reference.

Mr. Hobson

Yes, but is the hon. Gentleman aware that that is not what the Question was asking for? The Question asked that a list of frequencies and their allocation should be made available to all hon. Members of the House of Commons because it is impossible to discuss the Report of the Television Advisory Committee unless the House of Commons has that information which, up to now, has not been given?

Mr. Gammans

I am sorry if I have not understood the import of the Question, but if the hon. Gentleman cares to put it down again next week in a different form, I will try to give him the information for which he asks.

Mr. C. I. Orr-Ewing

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the document to which he refers lists certain bands reserved exclusively for television broadcasting, and that in the case of Band III it states that in the United Kingdom this band is also allocated for fixed services? Is he further aware that his predecessor apparently completely disregarded the international agreement and licensed many mobile services in spite of the signature of the Chief Engineer of the Post Office on that international undertaking?

Mr. Gammans

There is another Question on that point down on the Order Paper, and perhaps I had better deal with it when it is reached.