HC Deb 16 March 1965 vol 708 cc1053-4
3. Mr. Peter Mills

asked the Postmaster-General whether he is aware of the unsatisfactory television reception in the Bideford area; and whether he will take the necessary action to improve the situation.

Mr. Joseph Slater

Yes, Sir. The B.B.C. tells me that its new low-power station at Barnstaple, which it hopes to complete at the beginning of next year, will improve reception in the Bideford area.

Mr. Mills

Will the hon. Gentleman bear in mind that it is the I.T.A. Westward transmitters which are at fault here, and in this area we do not always want to look at T.W.W. and Welsh programmes? Will he note also that there is not much point in starting a fourth channel until we can see the existing channels in all parts of the country?

Mr. Slater

The station at Barnstaple has been delayed because of the problem of finding a site from which to pick up a reliable signal either from the North Hessary Tor or from Wenvoe. A site has now been found from which a reliable signal can be picked up. Planning approval has been obtained, but completion of the station will not be possible before the beginning of next year.

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