HC Deb 22 March 1972 vol 833 cc1482-3
10 and 22. Mr. Peter Mills

asked the Minister of Posts and Telecommunications (1) why the Central Religious Advisory Committee was not consulted by him on the cancelling of the regulations releasing the authorities from the restriction on hours and the obligations to observe the closed period;

(2) in view of the concern of Christian people, what guidance he has given to the Independent Television Authority over his cancelling of the regulations releasing the Authorities from the obligation to observe the closed period, in connection with his introduction of unlimited broadcasting hours.

Mr. Chataway

Both the B.B.C. and I.T.A. have indicated, following my announcement, that they have no plans for changing the present pattern of religious broadcasts. If any such proposals were made they would of course consult their Central Religious Advisory Committee. It is not its function to advise me.

Mr. Mills

Does the Minister agree that it would have been better to consult the Committee which was set up for this very purpose? Will he bear in mind that any change would be regretted by many people who feel that time should be set aside for religious broadcasting and the promotion of any faith?

Mr. Chataway

I entirely appreciate that view. I know that large numbers of people would regret any change in the present arrangements. However, the Central Religious Advisory Committee was set up to advise the broadcasting authorities. It would have been almost improper for me to approach the Committee to ask for its views. I know that the two broadcasting authorities will have in mind the point made by my hon. Friend.

Mr. David Steel

Is the Minister aware that many people concerned with religious broadcasting take the view that the extension of hours could lead to more broadcasting of a very high quality from the religious departments and give them much greater freedom and scope?

Mr. Chataway

It is true that the extension of hours ought to give new opportunities to broadcasters in most categories.

Mr. Pavitt

In view of the success of this body in its advisory capacity and the similar success of the education advisory body, will the Minister now support the dissemination of health education along the lines proposed in my Bill? If it could be obtained voluntarily it would help enormously.

Mr. Speaker

Order. I do not think that that arises from the Question.