HC Deb 02 December 1959 vol 614 cc1176-7
31. Mr. Janner

asked the Postmaster-General whether he is aware that the funds available to the British Broadcasting Corporation are not sufficient for it to carry out the duties with which it is charged; and what proposals he has for increasing its revenue.

Mr. Bevins

As already announced, the B.B.C. represented that the 87½ per cent, of net licence revenue available to it in the three years 1957–58–1959–60 would not be adequate for 1959–60. For this year 92½ per cent, is being paid and this will meet requirements. The proportion of licence revenue payable for future years is under consideration.

Mr. Janner

Does the right hon. Gentleman think that the amount available is sufficient? Is not it necessary to have a television studio in the East Midlands? Has he been approached with that end in view by the Leicester City Council and other authorities? If there is sufficient money available, why on earth does not he grant that facility?

Mr. Bevins

There is nothing in the hon. Gentleman's Question about that particular facility, but the present 92½ per cent, this year represents an increase in income of about £2½ million. The B.B.C. has asked for more for next year and the year after. That request is under consideration.

Mr. Janner

On a point of order. I asked the Minister a specific question, whether he thought that there was sufficient money available for the reasonable needs of the B.B.C. As he stated that there was sufficient, I asked in my supplementary question why he does not grant essential facilities.

Mr. Speaker

That is not a point of order for me. The right hon. Gentleman need not answer anything if he does not want to.

Mr. Bevins

I assured the hon. Gentleman that the income of the B.B.C. is sufficient to enable it to discharge the duties with which it is charged. If the hon. Gentleman wants to ask a pointed question on a particular case he has in mind, I shall be very glad to answer it if he will table it.