§ 30. Mr. Bryanasked the Postmaster-General what request he has received from the Council of the Local Radio Association for an interview regarding local sound broadcasting; and what reply he gave.
§ Mr. Edward ShortOn 4th July the Chairman of the Association sent me a copy of its memorandum on local broadcasting and offered to meet me. I thanked him for the memorandum, which I shall study with interest; and noted his offer.
§ Mr. BryanDo I understand from what the right hon. Gentleman has said that he is to meet this Association, or not? I assume that he will have discussed this matter with the B.B.C., as representing those who advocate local sound radio as a public service. It is important that he should also discuss it with those representing those who advocate local sound broadcasting by independent means.
§ Mr. ShortThe hon. Gentleman can make any assumptions he likes. I have looked at this memorandum and I shall study it with great care. If I feel that there is anything to be gained, I shall meet the Association. But let it be quite clear that this Association is just an association of companies formed to promote local broadcasting on a commercial basis.
§ Mr. Alfred MorrisCan my right hon. Friend say whether any further consideration has been given to the proposals by Manchester Corporation for a local broadcasting station in the city?
§ Mr. ShortI am very grateful to Manchester for putting forward this proposal and it is just the sort of imaginative scheme which we would certainly look at in our consideration of this matter.