HC Deb 16 December 1959 vol 615 cc1416-7
10. Mr. Darling

asked the Postmaster-General whether the British Broadcasting Corporation's plans for local very high frequency radio services include a local station for Sheffield; to what extent local interests have been invited to take part in, or advise on, the operations; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Bevins

With regard to the Corporation's plan for local broadcasting, I fear I cannot add to the reply I gave to the hon. Member for Barnsley (Mr. Mason) on 9th December. The B.B.C. tells me, however, that it will consider the needs of Sheffield for a V.H.F. sound satellite station when it plans the next stage of its scheme for improving and extending its television and V.H.F. sound coverage.

Mr. Darling

Is the Postmaster-General aware that the B.B.C. has been talking along these lines for a long time and that because of the hills in the Sheffield area V.H.F. reception is very bad? Will he make representations to the B.B.C. on behalf of the citizens of Sheffield, who would very much like the B.B.C. to recognise Sheffield for what it is—the sixth largest city in the country?

Mr. Bevins

The B.B.C. hopes to be able to provide a sound satellite station for Sheffield in the second phase of its programme, but I will certainly take note of what the hon. Gentleman said.