HC Deb 26 November 1973 vol 865 cc9-10
6. Mr. Golding

asked the Minister of Posts and Telecommunications whether he will now announce the termination of the local cable experiments.

Sir J. Eden

No, Sir.

Mr. Golding

Is the Minister aware that Rediffusion's high-frequency cable system will cost the country £200 million more to install than would the Post Office's coaxial system? Is he further aware that this additional cost would be borne by the country solely to allow pay television to be introduced?

Sir J. Eden

The hon. Gentleman's Question deals with local cable experiments. These have only recently been launched and are concerned with the experience of communities in having their own television programmes. This is a more limited objective than the matter to which the hon. Gentleman appears to refer.

Mr. Wyn Roberts

Will my right hon. Friend consider enlarging the scope of one or two of the experiments in cable television along the lines proposed in the recent submission to him by the Cable Television Association so that we can see what scope there is for cable television?

Sir J. Eden

Consideration is being given to the best way in which the future development of cable television can be encouraged.