HC Deb 20 May 1953 vol 515 cc2046-7
3. Mr. Hobson

asked the Assistant Postmaster-General to give a list of the daily papers which have now applied for a licence for commercial television.

Mr. Gammans

Since this question was last raised in the House, I have looked at the matter again to see if it would be possible for me to disclose these names. I would very much like to do so. I find, however, that until the frequencies available and the general conditions governing commercial broadcasting are announced, these applications must be largely of a provisional nature. Some of them are little more than enquiries. It is my noble Friend's intention to announce the names of all applicants as soon as firm conditions have been decided and applications have been confirmed.

Mr. Hobson

Does the reply mean that the Postmaster-General will make known in another place who the applicants for the frequencies are before the licences are granted, or will the House be faced, particularly with regard to the newspapers, with a fait accompli?

Mr. Gammans

The House has been promised a full debate on the terms of the licence when the first television licences are granted. I have told the hon. Gentleman that it is my noble Friend's intention to disclose the names as soon as possible.

Sir R. Grimston

Is there any truth in the suggestion that among the list of applicants are the "Daily Herald" and the "Manchester Guardian"?

Mr. Gammans

I cannot disclose that, but I can assure the House that there are newspapers of very widely differing political views who wish to have television stations of their own.

Mr. Hobson

Would the hon. Gentleman say whether the Question of the hon. Member for Westbury (Sir R. Grimston) reveals a leak.