§ 30. Mr. Ashleyasked the Minister of Posts and Telecommunications if he has yet had discussions with the Musicians' Union on the proposals for commercial local radio.
§ Mr. ChatawayYes, Sir.
§ Mr. AshleyWhen does the Minister think that the agreement with the union is likely to be concluded? Can he ensure that any influence he may exercise will be used to make sure that any agreement is not detrimental to the B.B.C.?
§ Mr. ChatawayNegotiations on agreements with the Musicians' Union would be for the authority that would be set up to oversee commercial radio and the station operators themselves, and it would be primarily a matter for the B.B.C. to safeguard its own interests.
§ Mr. RichardThe Minister will be aware that there are different and, indeed, firmly held views about the advisability or otherwise of the introduction of commercial radio. Can he give an assurance that before the Government make up their mind on the details of the proposals in this respect there will be full opportunity, and not merely a White Paper debate, for consultation with the unions concerned? Is the right hon. Gentleman also aware that through my post this morning I received an invitation to attend a dinner on 9th December at which he will speak to the Young European Management Association on commercial radio and its future within the United Kingdom? If he intends to tell it anything of substance, would it not be a good idea to let the House into his confidence first?
§ Mr. ChatawayI have, of course, talked to a number of bodies about the Government's proposals for commercial radio. The hon. Gentleman knows that I have undertaken to publish a White Paper early in the new year. This I shall do, and it is intended to be a prelude to discussion here.
§ Sir H. HarrisonWill my right hon. Friend give any indication when these members of the Musicians' Union will be able to be employed on commercial radio?
§ Mr. ChatawayI certainly hope that the advent of commercial radio will mean an increase in opportunities for the employment of musicians.
§ 31. Mr. Ashleyasked the Minister of Posts and Telecommunications whether, following his review of the Corporation's priorities, he intends to allow the British Broadcasting Corporation to proceed with its plans for the extension of local radio.
§ Mr. ChatawayI have nothing to add to the announcement I made on 6th August, a copy of which is in the Library.
§ Mr. AshleyWill the right hon. Gentleman give a categorical assurance that any competition between the B.B.C. and any commercial radio will be completely fair both in terms of location of stations and in use of the medium wave?
§ Mr. ChatawayI made it clear at the beginning of August that the Government would not be committed to sanctioning B.B.C. local stations on any permanent basis. Whether there should be one network of local stations or two networks will depend on questions of finance and frequencies available.