HC Deb 04 May 1955 vol 540 cc1676-7
29. Mr. Hargreaves

asked the Postmaster-General whether a site has yet been chosen for the radio and television station proposed to serve Carlisle.

Dr. Hill

No, Sir. The B.B.C. is at present carrying out tests on possible sites for the television station, which it is hoped to open by the end of next year. The Corporation contemplates that a V.H.F. sound broadcasting station will eventually operate from the same site.

Mr. Hargreaves

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that a promise was given to me in December that tests would be begun immediately in order to fix a site for this Carlisle television and sound station? Does not the fact that Carlisle is denied the opportunity of seeing the Cup Final on television make it patent that the need is urgent?

Dr. Hill

The B.B.C. has been carrying out tests, and I am informed that they are not yet complete. We went into the trouble about the Cup Final the other night, and I have a great deal of sympathy with the hon. Gentleman's point of view.

Mr. N. Macpherson

Can my right hon. Friend look into the question of improving the reception in the Border area, and will the new Carlisle station prove a benefit?

Dr. Hill

It will result in a general improvement in reception in the area, but to what extent that will extend into Scotland, I am unable to say.