§ 22. Mr. Blenkinsopasked the Postmaster-General what action he proposes to take to deal with pirate radio stations, in view of the international agreement that has been reached.
§ Mr. BennI cannot add to the information I have already given the House: that is, that legislation to implement the agreement will be introduced as soon as practicable.
§ Mr. BlenkinsopDoes my right hon. Friend agree that a great deal of time has been taken and that other countries have carried out the agreement? Is not this delay causing trouble not only with agreements among the trade unions, the Musicians Union and others, but also causing a good deal of damage to broadcasting on the Continent? Is it not time that we got on with it?
§ Mr. BennI am very well aware of what my hon. Friend says. In fact, four countries have carried through the legislation while another seven have not yet signed the agreement, so that our record in comparison with others is not as bad as my hon. Friend suggests. This is a matter of legislation priorities.
§ Mr. Robert CookeWill the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that the problem might solve itself if he were to authorise some legitimate local radio stations?
§ Mr. BennA lot of problems would solve themselves if legal action were not taken against those who broke the law, but whether that would necessarily be desirable is quite another question.