§ 20. Mr. Gowerasked the Postmaster-General whether he has now agreed to the Independent Television Authority's request to be allowed to use a second very high frequency television channel in South Wales to enable viewers in South Wales and the West of England to have their own editions of the Independent Television service next year.
§ Mr. BevinsI have agreed in principle that the Authority may transmit on Channel 7 at its St. Hilary Station in South Wales as from the middle of next year. The Authority intends to appoint a programme contractor to serve the whole of Wales and the West of England area and needs this additional channel to provide distinctive Welsh programmes in South Wales at peak viewing hours.
§ Mr. Robert CookeWould my right hon. Friend bear in mind that this is welcome news, as a temporary expedient, but that the real solution is that the West of England and Wales should be dealt with by separate independent companies? Will he try to make a definite statement on that as soon as possible?
§ Mr. BevinsIn view of my reply to an earlier question by the hon. Member for Salford, East (Mr. Frank Allaun) I think I had better be rather circumspect in what I say, but I am sure that the Authority will take note of my hon. Friend's suggestion.