HC Deb 16 December 1959 vol 615 c1418
24. Mr. Lipton

asked the Postmaster-General whether he has now decided to renew the present charter of the British Broadcasting Corporation until 1964.

Mr. Bevins

The charter does not expire till 30th June, 1962. There is plenty of time for renewal, and I cannot give any commitment now.

Mr. Lipton

Is the Postmaster-General aware that it would be desirable from every point of view that the charters of the B.B.C. and I.T.A. should expire at the same time, so that the House would have an opportunity of discussing the whole problem in all its aspects? Will he try to speed up a decision in the matter, so that the House may know where it stands?

Mr. Bevins

I am aware of all those considerations, and I can assure the hon. Member that there will be no undue delays.