HC Deb 23 March 1955 vol 538 c2053
13 Mr. Hobson

asked the Assistant Postmaster-General if he will introduce legislation to require the British Broadcasting Corporation and the Independent Television Authority to inform him of the regular hours of transmission of their programmes and of the introduction of any fresh transmission in order that he may be enabled to inform the House on these matters.

Sir. E. Boyle

In view of the provisions of Clause 15 (1) of the B.B.C.'s Licence and Agreement and Section 9 (3) of the Television Act, fresh legislation is not needed. My noble Friend announced yesterday in another place the arrangements he has agreed with both organisations.

Mr. Hobson

Does that reply mean that any alterations in the times of transmission and any fresh programmes likely to be instituted by the B.B.C. or the I.T.A. Advisory Committee will in future be announced in this House?

Sir. E. Boyle

Quite frankly, my answer means that I think the hon. Member has not studied Section 9 (3) of the Television Act quite as carefully as one might have expected him to do.