HC Deb 20 October 1971 vol 823 cc707-8
17. Mr. Gorst

asked the Minister of Posts and Telecommunications what representations he has received on the subject of a second television channel for Independent Television; and whether he will make a statement.

Mr. Chataway

The Federation of Broadcasting Unions has sent me a copy, which I have noted with interest, of a letter it has sent to the Director-General of the Independent Television Authority. As far as the Government's attitude to this matter is concerned, I have nothing to add to my reply to the hon. Member for Putney (Mr. Hugh Jenkins) on 21st July.—[Vol. 821, c. 1436]

Mr. Gorst

I do not wish to press my right hon. Friend for any date or time scale, but will he nevertheless confirm that it remains the Government's policy to extend the choice available to the viewing public in television broadcasting at the earliest practical opportunity?

Mr. Chataway

It is the Government's intention to enlarge choice wherever possible. As regards use of the fourth channel, the I.T.A. is to give me its views towards the end of the year about a possible ITV 2 and I shall consider them at that point.

Mr. Whitehead

Has the Minister noted the statement of the Director-General of the I.T.A. that there should not be a public debate about ITV 2—or TV 4, as some of us might wish to call it? Does not the right hon. Gentleman agree that it would be a scandal if there were not a public debate, and a debate in the House, about the disposal of this scarce public asset?

Mr. Chataway

That was a quotation taken very much out of context. There is already considerable debate about the matter.