§ 13. Mr. Langford-Holtasked the Assistant Postmaster-General whether, as a result of the failure of the voluntary scheme, he will now introduce a Regulation requiring the fitting of suppressors to motor vehicles to reduce interference with television reception.
§ Mr. GammansI would agree that the voluntary scheme has not been as successful as it was hoped it would be, but my noble Friend is reluctant to adopt compulsory measures, involving as they would the power of inspection over individual motor vehicles and an increase in staff. This summer it is proposed to start, both through the Post Office and the motor trades, a widespread campaign to encourage motorists to fit suppressors to their cars.
§ Brigadier Prior-PalmerWhat is the price of fitting these suppressors?
§ Mr. GammansIt varies. Some cars need only one suppressor on the distributor, but others want one on each plug.
§ Mr. LewisIs it not possible for the Assistant Postmaster-General to approach his right hon. Friend the Minister of Transport and suggest that when cars are licensed there should be a declaration on the application form to the effect that suppressors have been fitted? In that event it would obviate this difficulty.
§ Mr. GammansI will look at that suggestion, but quite a lot of information is already asked for on that form.
§ Sir R. GrimstonIs my hon. Friend contemplating issuing a Regulation making the fitting of these suppressors compulsory on new models after a certain date?
§ Mr. GammansYes, that has been laid before this House and comes into force on 1st July this year.