§ 93. Mr. Chapmanasked the Postmaster-General what discussions he is having with the Independent Television Authority regarding special Treasury subsidy for its news service; and what conclusion has been reached.
Dr. HillThe Independent Television Authority wrote to me about the possibility of its receiving a grant under Section 11 of the Television Act, and I discussed the matter with the Authority on the 31st January. In the light of that discussion, the Independent Television Authority is reconsidering the matter and will approach me again.
§ 94. Miss Burtonasked the Postmaster-General if he will use his powers to compel the Independent Television Authority to provide complete national coverage before allowing them to develop a second programme for any area.
Dr. HillAs I stated on 22nd February, the Government have decided to defer consideration of any additional television programme for either the B.B.C. or the Independent Television Authority for two years.