HC Deb 08 July 1959 vol 608 cc1350-1
36. Mr. C. Hughes

asked the Postmaster-General if he will recommend the inclusion of North Wales in the first stage of the British Broadcasting Corporation's plans for satellite television stations.

Mr. K. Thompson

I am sorry I cannot do as the hon. Gentleman asks. The B.B.C. tells me that it cannot meet all the needs of Wales for satellite television stations in the first stage of its plans. It hopes to be able to improve reception in North Wales in a later stage.

Mr. Hughes

Is the Assistant Postmaster-General aware that there is very great disappointment in parts of North Wales where reception is particularly bad because the area is not included in the new scheme? Why is North Wales singled out for exclusion in this way? Will he look at the matter again and see whether the area can be brought in?

Mr. Thompson

I am aware of the disappointment in that area and in other areas. I think that the hon. Gentleman will see, as Questions proceed, that North Wales is not alone in being disappointed.

Mr. Ness Edwards

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that, in the British Broadcasting Corporation's plan which the Postmaster-General has approved, only two satellite stations are going to Wales, five are going to Scotland and six are going to England? Does it not appear that insufficient regard is being paid to the needs of various areas in the planning?

Mr. Thompson

No. The B.B.C. is responsible for these proposals, and it has to take into account not only its financial resources but very complicated technical considerations which are particularly difficult in mountainous and fringe areas.

Mr. Ness Edwards

Has not the Postmaster-General special powers in this matter? Cannot he direct the B.B.C.—I think he can under the Charter—to place satellite stations in various places? Has there not been a complete disregard for equity between the three nations in this plan?

Mr. Thompson

It would be wise for me to refrain from commenting on that supplementary question until we reach later Questions on the Order Paper.

Mr. Hughes

In view of the very unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I shall raise the matter on the Adjournment.