§ 7. Mr. Milneasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he will set up an inquiry into the effect on the extent to which the comfort and viewing of spectators and reporters at football matches is affected by the methods used by television crews in the filming of such matches.
§ Mr. Denis HowellNo, Sir. This matter is one for the football authorities.
§ Mr. MilneIs my hon. Friend aware that responsibility for the comfort and viewing of spectators at football matches does not always rest with the television crews? Will he take it upon himself to deal with the football authorities in order that something better can be got from the situation at football matches of this kind? Is he aware, for instance, that when North Shields won the Amateur Cup, the B.B.C.'s film unit was refused 1644 entry to the North Shields dressing room? The football authorities have a great deal to do in this respect.
§ Mr. HowellWhoever is responsible for the sad story of the North Shields Football Club, I am glad to say that it is not the Government. I referred not to television but to the football authorities. I hope that in this modern age of communications there is the maximum co-operation between both bodies in the interests of the public at large.
§ Sir G. NabarroWill the hon. Gentleman do nothing to hinder the efficiency of the presentation on television screens of football matches, which is of a very high order in this country? Does he realise that, if he does so, he will prejudice the viewing opportunities of millions who are often working on Saturday and not able to attend matches in person?
§ Mr. HowellAs this House is delighted, with the rest of the sporting public, to record the successes of England, Newcastle United and others, I am pleased to pay tribute to the superb presentation of football by our television companies.