HC Deb 18 December 1963 vol 686 cc1238-9
22. Mr. Mason

asked the Postmaster-General what part the Post Office is to play in the development of a universal satellite communications system.

Mr. Bevins

The Post Office is undertaking further development of its highly successful satellite ground station at Goonhilly Down, which is generally regarded as the nearest approach so far to an operational station. The Post Office is also engaged in research and development work on the electronic equipment required for satellite communications, and it took part in the recently completed design study of satellites. The Post Office is also taking part in the international discussions now in progress.

Mr. Mason

I am obliged for that reply. Could the right hon. Gentleman tell the House whether the statement of the Assistant Postmaster-General on Friday, 6th December, when winding up the debate, was a statement of Government policy when he said that we are now playing a part in developing a universal satellite communications system? If that is so, could he explain what he means by "universal" and which countries are participating in this development of a universal system?

Mr. Bevins

I think what my hon. Friend meant, quite rightly, was that by their very nature satellite communications are most economical when they are used on a world-wide basis. A single integrated world system is the right answer, provided the conditions we get are right.

Mr. Mason

The right hon. Gentleman is evading the issue. The Assistant Postmaster-General said that we are now playing a part in developing a universal satellite communications system. Has a decision been taken by the Government? The Light hill Report was sent to the Government many weeks ago, and British industrialists are now eagerly awaiting a decision on the Report. That being so, the Government ought to be taking steps to enlighten the whole of British industry which is interested in this development on exactly what part this country will play in the development of satellite communications.

Mr. Bevins

What my hon. Friend had in mind is that we are having discussions on several fronts at the present time, first of all with our opposite numbers in the postal and telecommunications organisations in France, Germany and Italy. We are having conversations at a European conference—in fact, several have been held already—and, of course, with the Americans themselves. I expect there will be an exchange of views between the European conference on satellites and the American authorities early in 1964.