HC Deb 29 June 1966 vol 730 cc1792-3
43. Dr. Winstanley

asked the Lord President of the Council if he is aware that the independent television companies have been refused individual representation in the Press Gallery; and if he will give the grounds for this refusal.

Mr. Bowden

It was decided by Mr. Speaker, with the agreement of the I.T.A., that, in view of the accommodation available, representation in the Reporters Gallery should be granted to the Independent Television News Limited and not to the independent television companies.

Dr. Winstanley

Is the Lord President aware that the independent television companies are at present regularly presenting programmes on Parliamentary matters quite apart from the news programmes of the I.T.N. and that in mounting these programmes they are substantially handicapped as against the B.B.C., which enjoys extensive facilities in the Press Gallery and through membership of the Lobby?

Mr. Bowden

It may be that this is the position. However, it is equally true to say that many provincial newspapers which might wish to be are not represented in the Gallery. There is a difficulty of space there. The I.T.A. has made no representations in this regard.

Mr. John Lee

Would not my right hon. Friend agree that this shows once more how urgent it is that we should increase the amount of our accommodation so that this unfair situation should not continue?