§ 15. Mr. Mathewasked the Postmaster General if he will give an assurance that 1252 substantial improvement in the British Broadcasting Corporation television reception in the areas of Budleigh Salterton, Sidmouth and Seaton will be achieved before a third channel is initiated for the benefit of more favoured areas.
§ Mr. BevinsI recognise, and so does the B.B.C, that an improvement in reception is desirable in the area to which my hon. Friend refers, and the needs of the area will be borne in mind in future planning.
§ Mr. MathewWill my right hon. Friend not only take it into account but ensure that early action is taken in this regard, because there is often a very substantial difference in the quality of reception in these areas as between the I.T.A. and B.B.C? An immediate improvement is essential.
§ Mr. BevinsYes. I recognise what my hon. Friend says. Although the B.B.C. has made no proposals about satellite stations in the third stage of its programme, I hope that it will do so in the next one.
§ Mr. P. BrowneMay I press the point on my right hon. Friend which I made the other day, that it would be more sensible to get proper reception in these areas on the existing B.B.C channel before we start on another one?
§ Mr. BevinsNo. I do not altogether accept that point of view, because the probability is that when programmes are put out on U.H.F. on bands 4 and 5 reception right throughout the country will be better.