HC Deb 15 May 1969 vol 783 cc1626-7
25. Mr. Stratton Mills

asked the Postmaster-General on what date the full colour television service will commence: and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Stonehouse

Colour on B.B.C.1 and I.T.V. will start on 15th November in the metropolitan area and will be progressively extended to other parts of the country.

By the end of the year colour on these two services should have become available to more than 40 per cent. of the population of the country.

Mr. Mills

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that his announcement that the Post Office has been able to keep the November date will be widely welcomed by the B.B.C., independent television, and the industry, which has invested £100 million in capital? Will he press on with the extension of the work to the rest of the country?

Mr. Stonehouse

Yes, Sir.

Mr. Dempsey

When does my right hon. Friend expect the colour service to be extended to Scotland?

Captain Orr

And Northern Ireland.

Mr. Dempsey

How soon does my right hon. Friend expect all the channels in the north of the country to have colour?

Mr. Stonehouse

I do not expect colour to be extended to Scotland or Northern Ireland before the end of the year, but I hope that we can begin planning to have it a short period after that.