§ 2.51 p.m.
§ Baroness Birk asked Her Majesty's Government:
§ When they intend to announce the terms of reference and composition of the Broadcasting Standards Council.
§ Baroness BirkMy Lords, I can hardly thank the Minister for the Answer but I thank him for warning me in advance—not his words, but mine—that my ace is to be trumped this afternoon. Does the Minister appreciate that the much-heralded Statement is likely to fill many of us with the gravest concern? The proposal for a Broadcasting Standards Council undermines the credibility and the constitutional independence of the BBC and the IBA. If it is true that Sir William Rees-Mogg is to be chairman, then is it not the case —
§ Baroness BirkMy Lords, with respect, I do not believe that I am offending against any order of procedure at all.
§ Baroness BirkYes, my Lords. One can read from the Front Bench. I had to change several times what I was going to say in view of the unpleasant and unexpected news that hit me just before I came into the Chamber. My concern is this. Is it not the case that Sir William Rees-Mogg, with his past record in broadcasting, will, if appointed chairman, probably bring in a very strong whiff of censorship as he seeks to shape British television into line with his wishes and those of the Government? Will there not be a great increase in control?
Earl FerrersMy Lords, I am surprised that the noble Baroness feels the gravest concern over something that has not yet been published. I can only suggest that she is patient and awaits the terms of my right honourable friend's Statement. I am sure she will then find that she has no grave concern; rather that she will be delighted.
§ Lord Nugent of GuildfordMy Lords, is my noble friend aware that many of us greatly welcome the creation of a broadcasting council and even more the appointment of Sir William Rees-Mogg as chairman? We feel that in his hands this body can perform an admirable and much needed job to check the excesses which sometimes we suffer through television.
Earl FerrersMy Lords, I am grateful to my noble friend for the support which he has been kind enough 7 to give for something which has not yet been announced. I merely say to my noble friend and to the noble Baroness, thank you in anticipation.