HC Deb 16 March 1970 vol 798 cc25-6
36. Mr. William Hamilton

asked the Minister of Posts and Telecommunications if he will introduce legislation to provide that the television and radio authorities shall send, within seven days of any broadcast, a transcript to those Members of Parliament appearing on programmes.

Mr. Stonehouse

No, Sir. I understand that it is the usual practice for the B.B.C. and the I.T.A. to send transcripts to Members of Parliament who ask for them.

Mr. Hamilton

Is my right hon. Friend aware that I had considerable difficulty in getting a transcript of a programme in Scotland which was likely to involve a libel action? Will he undertake to ask the television and radio authorities that, when an hon. Member requires a transcript, it will be provided within the seven days mentioned in the Question?

Mr. Stonehouse

I understand that both the B.B.C. and I.T.A. are anxious to co-operate on those lines.

Mr. Peyton

Would it not be more kindly if the majority of such utterances were decently interred?

Mr. Stonehouse

The hon. Gentleman must make his observations about his own appearances, and we will take note of what he says.