28. Mr. G. Wilsonasked the Assistant Postmaster-General whether it will be possible to provide a temporary television service for Cornwall in time for the broadcast of Her Majesty's return from overseas.
§ Mr. GammansNo, Sir. I think this must wait until the television station which the B.B.C. propose to erect on North Hessary Tor is opened.
Mr. WilsonIs my hon. Friend not aware that the people of Cornwall were very disappointed not to have the opportunity of viewing the Coronation? Will he use his influence to do everything he can to expedite the provision of a service at the earliest possible moment?
§ Mr. GammansI do not think that there will be any avoidable delay in starting the station at North Hessary Tor.
§ Mr. HaymanWill the hon. Gentleman bear in mind that very large sums of money were spent by the B.B.C. in broadcasting the Coronation ceremony to the Continent, whilst Cornwall was deprived of the opportunity of viewing it? Will he ask the B.B.C. to consider the matter, because I understand that a very small sum would be involved in granting this concession?
§ Mr. GammansIt is not correct to say that a small sum is involved. The B.B.C. is very heavily pressed now in providing its new stations, and I can hold out no hope whatever of a temporary station to broadcast the Queen's return.
§ Mr. StevensArising out of my hon. Friend's first reply, can he say whether the transmitter in the Isle of Wight will be ready in time for Her Majesty's return so that the inhabitants of Portsmouth, Southampton and the hardy islanders will be able to share in this great event?
§ Mr. GammansThat question is not on the Order Paper, but it may comfort my hon. Friend to know that there is not likely to be any delay.