HC Deb 27 February 1969 vol 778 cc1911-2
36. Mr. Boston

asked the Postmaster-General if he will make a statement about the British Broadcasting Corporation's plans for reorganising the location of transmitters and, in particular, the effect of this reorganisation on regional programmes and Radio 3.

27. Mr. Peter Mills

asked the Postmaster-General what proposals he has received from the British Broadcasting Corporation regarding the curtailment of regional broadcasting stations; and if he will decline to give his consent to the closure of such stations, especially those in the south-west region of England.

Mr. Stonehouse

No such proposals or plans have been made to me. It is a matter for the B.B.C. whether it should review its regional and national programme activities.

Mr Boston

Does my right hon. Friend appreciate that there is very serious concern about persistent reports that Radio 3, the Third Programme and music programme, is likely to be curtailed or closed down? In view of its immense value to many people throughout the country and its high international reputation, will he confirm that there is no intention to curtail or close the programme?

Mr. Stonehouse

I cannot say that, because I understand that the B.B.C. is conducting a review of its efficiency and is not yet in a position to make an announcement of the result. I am sure that it will bear in mind the observations made in the House.

Mr. Gilmour

Would it not be far more sensible if the B.B.C, instead of closing down or curtailing things, such as Radio 3 or regional programmes, were to stop doing things, such as municipal radio, which could be much better done by other people?

Mr. Stonehouse

The trouble with municipal radio proposals is that municipal authorities promoting them want to pay for them by advertising, and I think that this would introduce a reprehensible feature into broadcasting in this country.

Dr. John Dunwoody

There is great concern in the regions about the rumours that regional services are to go or to be reduced. At a time when we are trying to decentralise many activities, is it not illogical that such suggestions should be put forward?

Mr. Stonehouse

I am sure that the B.B.C. will pay close attention to the observations made in the House.