§ 3. Mr. Chichester-Clarkasked the Postmaster-General whether he will ensure that by 1969 both the city and county of Londonderry will have full television reception coverage.
§ Mr. Joseph SlaterThe coverage attained by their services is primarily a matter for the broadcasting authorities. B.B.C.1 and Independent Television arc already available generally in the city and county. The B.B.C. tells me that the main ultra high frequency station at Limavady should bring B.B.C.2, and colour television, to some 100,000 people by about mid-1969. A relay station, which should serve a further 50,000 people in the city of Londonderry, will follow shortly afterwards.
§ Mr. Chichester-ClarkWhile I do not wish to see any delay, is the hon. Gentleman aware that Londonderry, with its density of population, is only to get the low-powered relay station, and then at a later date? Cannot the hon. Gentleman see that the two areas receive coverage at the same time and not later than 1969?
§ Mr. SlaterThe relay station will afford satisfactory reception for the city, as I think the hon. Gentleman will agree, and when the main station at Limavady is operating the B.B.C. will be able to decide what further relay stations will be required.