§ 36. Sir J. Langford-Holtasked the Postmaster-General whether he will give a direction to the Independent Television Authority and the British Broadcasting Corporation that they should refrain from broadcasting party political broadcasts after 6 p.m.
§ Sir J. Langford-HoltIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that there are times in the peak viewing period when the great British public can hear nothing but the waffle of party political broadcasts with no alternative? Until such times as there are different times when these broadcasts go out, will the right hon. Gentleman make sure that they are not put over during the evening?
Mr. ShortThis has always been a matter for agreement between the major political parties and the broadcasting authorities.
§ Mr. MikardoWill my right hon. Friend initiate discussions between the major political parties with the idea of ensuring that party political broadcasts are put out on different channels at different times, so that the listener or viewer has an alternative programme if he wants it?
Mr. ShortMy right hon. Friend the Chief Whip is on the Front Bench at the moment and I have no doubt that he has taken the point. His opposite number is on the Front Bench opposite and no doubt he will take note or it, too.