HC Deb 27 January 1954 vol 522 cc1727-8
17. Captain Orr

asked the Assistant Postmaster-General upon what grounds he bases his estimate of 1955 as the year during which the permanent television transmitter for Northern Ireland will come into service; and what estimate he has received from the British Broadcasting Corporation on the matter.

Mr. Gammans

I can assure my hon. and gallant Friend that the estimate I gave him in my reply of 9th December represents the opinion of the B.B.C. and is based on information furnished by them.

Captain Orr

Is my hon. Friend aware that the B.B.C. is apparently speaking with two voices, because the Director-General and the Regional Controller for Northern Ireland have already given us 1954 as the year in which this permanent transmitter will come into use? What is the cause of the difference of a year? What have the Post Office to hide in this matter?

Mr. Gammans

We have not anything to hide, so far as I am aware. If my hon. and gallant Friend will be good enough to let me have particulars of any discrepancies, I will certainly ask the B.B.C. whether they can give me any explanation.