HC Deb 12 March 1973 vol 852 cc874-5
14. Mr. Walter Johnson

asked the Minister of Posts and Telecommunications what representations he has received from the BBC concerning the screening of road safety films on television.

Sir J. Eden

None, Sir.

Mr. Johnson

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that these excellent road safety films shown on Independent Television perform a useful public service? Will he make representations to the BBC asking it to show the films too, so that they get a wider audience?

Sir J. Eden

The BBC broadcasts specific notices which are required for public information but it does not normally repeat advertisements or notices, of whatever kind, which appear on the commercial channel.

Mr. Golding

Why not? Is not the entire question of public information broadcasting one which needs debating in a committee of inquiry? Is it not absurd that we should have to depend on the commercial channel for public information of this sort?

Sir J. Eden

It is a matter of the purchase of peak viewing time. The BBC makes use of many public service announcements as "fillers" outside peak times. It takes the view that its peak time is better devoted to other purposes. Advertising space on ITV is purchased by the various Departments concerned to ensure that a certain message receives maximum attention.

Mr. Tom King

Will my right hon. Friend reconsider this subject? Is he aware that his first answer might seem unconvincing to some who are aware that this House considers that identical party political broadcasts should be carried on both channels? There might be those who consider that road safety should receive equally important treatment.

Sir J. Eden

Under the licence and the agreement with the BBC the Government can already require the corporation to broadcast announcements whenever requested to do so by any Minister in the Government. It would be carrying that procedure considerably further if we were to require the corporation also to carry full-scale advertisements. I will certainly consider these matters.