Local Radio

HC Deb 03 July 1969 vol 786 cc623-4

29. Mr. Stratton Mills

asked the Postmaster-General if he will now make a statement on the review of the local radio experiment.

33. Mr. Leadbitter

asked the Postmaster-General what proposals he now has for the future of local radio as a result of his review of the existing experiment.

Mr. Stonehouse

I will make a statement when this review has been completed.

Mr. Stratton Mills

Could the Postmaster-General clear up one point? Will this statement be made simultaneously with the B.B.C. statement next week, as it obviously will lead to a chaotic situation if the two do not match in the matter of time? Could we also be assured that there will be no bogus financial arrangements within the experiment?

Mr. Stonehouse

I would ask the House to await the statement. I cannot give an assurance that the local radio statement will be made before the main review.

Mr. Leadbitter

Will my right hon. Friend in making his statement not only consider the question of a full explanation of the finances involved but make some comment about the wavelengths to be used? Could he give some assurance that the question of regional broadcasting will be reviewed?

Mr. Stonehouse

Yes, I can give that assurance. All those points will be dealt with since they are all extremely important.

Mr. Hugh Jenkins

Is my right hon. Friend aware that the question of the B.B.C. looking into its own affairs and the question of the wider future of radio are two separate issues? Would it not be better if he were to make his own statement after the B.B.C. statement has been made?

Mr. Stonehouse

I cannot give an assurance to the House on the timing, but we must take into account both problems before we make any final decision.