HC Deb 11 May 1960 vol 623 cc393-4
13. Mr. Ness Edwards

asked the Postmaster-General if he will now state the composition of the commission to examine the future of broadcasting, and its terms of reference.

Mr. Bevins

No, Sir.

Mr. Ness Edwards

Here again is an example of fencing. When will the right hon. Gentleman be able to give us some information? He has been asked about this many times. Is it not about time that he brought it to finality?

Mr. Bevins

Of course, the future of broadcasting and television is so important to all our people that it is important that we should get the right answer rather than a hasty answer, but I will undertake to take the House into my confidence at the earliest possible date, and I think it will be a very early date.

Mr. Snow

If by that reply the Postmaster-General is in fact saying that the terms of reference have not yet been decided, may I ask him if he will consider including in any eventual terms of reference the safeguarding of the English language, which at present is being jeopardised by the inculcation of international American?

Mr. Bevins

This is one of a host of matters which will be examined.

Sir R. Grimston

Will my right hon. Friend bear in mind that, as he will have available the report of his Technical Advisory Committee, in the opinion of many of us there is no need for another commission?

Mr. Bevins

I am aware of the view of my hon. Friend and many hon. Members of this House, but, of course, my Answer did not say that the commission was being set up.