HC Deb 17 July 1957 vol 573 cc1126-7
27. Mr. Frank Allaun

asked Postmaster-General if he will make a further statement about the negotiations between the Independent Television Authority and the Institute of Directors concerning the Institute's advertisements on commercial television.

Mr. K. Thompson

I would draw the hon. Member's attention to the Press statement issued by the I.T.A. on 7th June.

Mr. Allaun

May we take it from that reply that in future no other body with political objects will be allowed to buy advertising time for propaganda purposes on this highly influential medium of commercial television?

Mr. Thompson

All I am able to ask the House to assume from the Answer I have given and the statement to which I have referred is that the Independent Television Authority will apply the provisions of the Television Act.

Mr. Ness Edwards

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that this is one occasion on which the Independent Television Authority can be congratulated on its better sense of responsibility than that of his right hon. Friend, who approved this proposal?

Mr. Thompson

My right hon. Friend has acted perfectly in accordance with the Act at every stage.

Sir R. Grimston

Is my hon. Friend aware that the proposal is to exhibit films depicting the achievements of British industry? Is it not a pity that the Act operates in such a way as to prevent such a laudable object from being achieved? In the interests of British industry, is it not time that the working of the Act was looked at with a view to some Amendment?

Mr. Thompson

Anything of that sort is a matter for the House.