HC Deb 02 November 1970 vol 805 cc662-3
29. Mr. Hicks

asked the Minister of Posts and Telecommunications why the stated intention of the British Broadcasting Corporation to transmit in 625 lines and colour from Caradon Hill as from autumn 1970 will not now take place; and when this service will now be available.

Mr. Chataway

The original target was the middle of 1971. The B.B.C. tells me that it had hoped to be able to improve on this and to start the service in November 1970, but there has been a short delay. It now expects to begin transmissions early in 1971, which is still an improvement on the original date.

Mr. Hicks

While welcoming that encouraging information, may I point out that this is not the first time this has happened with services to the West Country? Does the B.B.C. insist on penalty clauses in contracts to suppliers to prevent this happening?

Mr. Chataway

That would be a matter for the B.B.C. and the I.T.A. I know that the B.B.C. is aware of the anxiety in the area that this development should take place as soon as possible.