§ Sir P. Harrisasked the Minister of Information whether he is aware that men in the Pacific fleet complain that they have few opportunities to hear British news and are mainly dependent on American broadcasts; and whether he will do something to remedy this defect.
Mr. G. LloydThe difficulties are primarily geographical. The General Forces Programme is directed to the Pacific area, but listening conditions for broadcasts from England are good only during a limited period of the day. Arrangements are therefore being made by the Australian Broadcasting Commission for additional B.B.C. programmes, especially for the British Fleet, to be radiated from their Sydney Station. S.E.A.C. is also making arrangements to provide a British short wave service audible in the South West Pacific area.