HC Deb 19 January 1954 vol 522 cc815-6
10. Mr. J. J. Astor

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government whether he will now announce his decision about the use of the Hessary Tor site for a television station for the Plymouth area; and whether he is aware of the concern at the delay since the public inquiry was held in September last.

Mr. H. Macmillan

I expect to announce my decision before the end of the month. I regret the time taken since the public inquiry; but there is here a serious clash of important interests, of national as well as local significance. At the same time difficult technical questions are involved. I have, therefore, given special attention to the whole problem in the hope of arriving at a wise decision.

Mr. Astor

But is the Minister aware that in the South-West there is public concern at the delay over this decision, and that if he can give a decision by the end of the month it will considerably speed television coverage to the South-West?

Mr. Macmillan

I hope to make a decision during this month.

Mr. G. Wilson

Is the Minister aware that this matter also affects Cornwall, which at present has no television service at all, and that the delay in giving the decision is causing further delay in providing a service there?