HC Deb 07 November 1961 vol 648 cc778-9
6 and 7. Mr. G. Thomas

asked the Postmaster-General (1) why he has rejected the British Broadcasting Corporation's plans for the early development of television in Wales; and whether he will make a statement;

(2) what proposals he has to enable the British Broadcasting Corporation's Welsh and West of England television services to be separated; and whether he will reconsider his refusal to allocate a Band III channel for a new transmitter at Wenvoe.

Mr. Bevins

I have a great deal of sympathy for the B.B.C's plans for separating their Welsh and West of England Television Services. But the allocation of a Band III channel for a new transmitter at Wenvoe at this stage might prejudice any recommendations the Pilkington Committee may make on the long-term television plan for Wales, or, indeed, for developments in the United Kingdom as a whole. I must, therefore, wait for the Pilkington Committee's Report before considering the B.B.C's proposals further.

I have already authorised the B.B.C. to provide three new television stations in Wales —at Llandrindod Wells, Pembroke and Llanddona.

Mr. Thomas

Yes, but is the Minister aware that those who are technically responsible for the B.B.C. hold the opinion that it is quite possible to go ahead without prejudicing the Pilkington Committee's Report? Is he further aware that it is unfair to the West Country and Wales to continue the present position? Since we may have to wait a long time for this Report, will the Minister show some urgency about the matter?

Mr. Bevins

The fact of the matter is that the B.B.C.'s proposals for new stations at Wenvoe and Llangollen would both have required the uncommitted use of Band III channels. I consulted the Pilkington Committee when I received these proposals and that Committee was of the same view as I; that if we were to commit these channels to Wenvoe or Llangollen we might be frustrating wise plans for the future of television in Wales and the United Kingdom as a whole.

Mr. Thomas

In view of the reply the Minister has given, I beg to give notice that I will raise the matter on the Adjournment at the earliest possible moment.