§ 7. Mr. Ashtonasked the Minister of Posts and Telecommunications whether he will introduce legislation to amend the Televison Act, 1964, so as to allow political parties to advertise on television.
§ Sir J. EdenNo, Sir.
§ Mr. AshtonIs it not a fact that all companies whose products are banned from being advertised on television, such as tobacco companies, get round this by having sponsored programmes and display advertisements? Would it be in order for a company such as Watney to display its sign at a party political conference behind the head of the Prime Minister since it gives £40,000 to Conservative Party funds?
§ Sir J. EdenAdvertisements on television for political parties or directly on their behalf are not allowed.
§ Mr. McCrindleWill my right hon. Friend reconsider his answer? Would it not be that if he were to allow the Labour Party to advertise on television its recent policy document, he could be assured of Government office for many years to come?