HC Deb 08 November 1972 vol 845 cc990-1
22. Mr. Fowler

asked the Minister of Posts and Telecommunications whether he is now in a position to announce a decision on the introduction of an independent broadcasting council.

Sir J. Eden

As I said in reply to my hon. Friend on 28th June, the idea might better be considered in the context of a general review.—[Vol. 839. c. 337.]

Mr. Fowler

Would my right hon. Friend accept that the aim of a broadcasting council is to provide not some kind of back-door censorship but a court of appeal for the public? Surely the time has come when the public's interest in broadcasting should be firmly recognised by the Government?

Sir J. Eden

I take note of what my hon. Friend has said, which I find extremely helpful in defining what should be the purpose of a broadcasting council.

Mr. Kaufman

Would not the right hon. Gentleman agree that a council of this kind is necessary to deal with the scandalous practices of tobacco companies, such as Benson and Hedges, which are getting round the ban on cigarette advertising by advertising cigars and other products with the same slogans as they use for advertising cigarettes? Is this not a scandal?

Sir J. Eden

The hon. Gentleman's supplementary question relates to the last Question. We have moved on since then.

Mr. Stratton Mills

In the light of the experience of the BBC's commission, which looks at a certain limited type of appeal, would my right hon. Friend engage in talks with the BBC to see whether, in the light of experience, the terms of reference could be extended?

Sir J. Eden

I am afraid that I did not hear what my hon. Friend said.

Mr. William Price

If the right hon. Gentleman sets up a broadcasting council, will he ensure that it is more useful than the Press Council?

Sir J. Eden

Obviously one would wish to take advantage of experience gained in any other quarter.