§ 24. Mr. Murrayasked the Postmaster-General in view of the fact that present television broadcasting hours do not always cater for old people and shift workers, he will now take steps to extend the broadcasting time of both the Independent Television Authority and the British Broadcasting Corporation.
§ Mr. Edward ShortThe Independent Television Authority has recently represented to me that the number of permitted hours of television broadcasting should be increased. I am considering the Authority's representations and will announce my conclusions as soon as possible.
§ Mr. MurrayEven if the Minister gives unfavourable consideration to this, would he consider the point that, particularly during the winter months, old-age pensioners are not able to leave home as much as they would like to and would welcome further television broadcasting?
§ Mr. ShortThis is very true and it applies to old people, piece-workers and a lot of others. But other factors enter into this as well. I will consider it very urgently and let the House know what my conclusions are.
§ Mr. BryanNow that the B.B.C. has the advantage of an extra channel, B.B.C.2, and colour, over I.T.A. is it not time that it gave way on this point and went along with the extra hour idea?