HC Deb 21 July 1971 vol 821 cc1426-7
6. Mr. Ford

asked the Minister of Posts and Telecommunications if he is aware that many of the constituents of the hon. Member for Bradford, North are dissatisfied with their reception of Radio Leeds, due to the low power of the radiation ; what his proposals are to improve this situation ; and if he is in a position to publish a comprehensive frequency plan.

Mr. Chataway

I have nothing to add to my reply to the hon. Member for Leeds, South-East (Mr. Merlyn Rees) on 9th June. The answer to the last part of the Question is, "Not yet".—[Vol. 818, c. 1017.]

Mr. Ford

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this is most unsatisfactory? Does he appreciate that Radio Leeds produces excellent programmes of popular appeal to which many people wish to listen and that it is a most unhappy situation that they are prevented from doing so merely because the Minister is not willing to allow the transmitter to be stepped up in power? Would he, please, act now and quickly?

Mr. Chataway

I must have a comprehensive frequency plan that is fan-to the B.B.C. and to the I.B.A. I am anxious that there should be good reception on v.h.f. and later, I hope, medium frequencies for B.B.C. local stations. I will help as soon as I can.

Mr. Edward Lyons

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is a growing suspicion that he is delaying the decision to give extra power to Radio Leeds so that the city and the region will be in a weak position to resist suggestions for a new commercial local radio station? Is that why Radio Leeds has not had a decision from him?

Mr. Chataway

There is no delay in giving decisions. I have explained to the hon. Gentleman and to a number of others who have inquired that I am not prepared to give further frequency space to B.B.C. stations at this time because that would prejudice the plan for I.B.A. stations. We need a comprehensive frequency plan which will permit the maximum amount of broadcasting.

Mr. Richard

Can the Minister say when his comprehensive frequency plan will be ready so that the B.B.C. can get on with improving its local radio stations? May we take it that the publication of the plan, and thereby permission to the B.B.C. to carry on, will not be delayed until after the passage of legislation setting out the responsibilities of the I.B.A., because that would take much too long?

Mr. Chataway

I cannot yet say when the plan will be complete, but the I.T.A. has been enabled to start work on it already.

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