§ 12. Mr. C. Hughesasked the Postmaster-General if he is aware of the poor reception of television in Anglesey; and what steps he is taking in conjunction with the British Broadcasting Corporation to improve it.
§ Mr. K. ThompsonYes, Sir. This is due to the distance from the transmitter and, in some instances, to the screening effect of neighbouring hills. These, and similar difficulties elsewhere, are being considered by the B.B.C. but they cannot yet say what improvements will be practicable.
§ Mr. HughesWill the hon. Gentleman say what progress is being made with the new experimental transmitter at Folkestone? When that transmitter does come 1152 into general use, will the hon. Gentleman ensure that North Wales has some priority in the matter, because the situation at present is very bad?
§ Mr. ThompsonOf course, from the proposed transmitter in Folkestone we have not yet any results showing its success or otherwise in operation. When those results have been analysed, then will come the question of deciding where priority should be given for the use of similar stations elsewhere. There are many competing claims both between different districts in Wales itself and between parts of Wales and parts of England and Scotland.
§ Sir J. DuncanIs my hon. Friend aware that I asked a similar Question some six weeks ago in relation to Forfar, where reception is equally bad, and will he, therefore, bear in mind, in considering this matter, the priority which should be given to Forfar?
§ Mr. SpeakerThis Question relates to Anglesey.