§ 11. Mr. Teddy Taylorasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what discussions he has had with the independent radio operators since his decision to permit foreign based stations to broadcast in the United Kingdom by means of land lines.
§ Mr. HurdOfficials have had a number of discussions, and I met representatives of the Association of Independent Radio Contractors on 13 June. Among other matters, we discussed their continuing concern over the question mentioned by my hon. Friend.
§ Mr. TaylorIs it not clear that companies such as LBC, Radio Essex and others, which contributed more than £6 million last year in levies and rentals, and the programmes of which are strictly controlled by the IBA, are now to face unfair competition from offshore companies such as Radio Luxembourg, which do not pay one penny and are not controlled by the IBA in any way?
§ Mr. HurdThe decision flowed mainly from the larger decision taken by the House and the Government to abolish the monopoly in telecommunications in this country. We understand the strongly held anxieties that are felt about the matter. Despite the difficulties, we are considering whether we can find a way of meeting those anxieties.