§ 18. Mr. G. M. Thomsonasked the Assistant Postmaster-General if he will make a statement on the results of the consultations that have taken place between the Angus Burgh Association and the British Broadcasting Corporation regarding problems of poor radio reception in the county.
§ Mr. GammansThe British Broadcasting Corporation have informed me that they have told the Angus Burgh Association that they are aware of the unsatisfactory reception of the Scottish Home Service in the County of Angus, and that they have fully considered the needs of this area in drawing up proposals for development of very high frequency broadcasting. As hon. Members are aware, these proposals are at present being considered by my noble Friend.
§ Mr. ThomsonIs the hon. Gentleman aware that reception of the Light Programme, particularly in the Dundee area, 1339 is very bad and that the great majority of listeners cannot receive it? Will he not look into the question here, as in Wales, of providing booster stations now instead of pursuing the long-term policy of V.H.F. broadcasting?
§ Mr. GammansI am not a technician, but I am informed that booster stations will not help very much and that the real way to tackle the problem is by the provision of V.H.F. stations. I hope that it will not be long before I am in a position to make a statement on the development of V.H.F. broadcasting.