HC Deb 21 July 1970 vol 804 cc105-6W
Mr. Jopling

asked the Minister of Posts and Telecommunications whether he is aware that a low percentage of people living in Westmorland have adequate television and radio reception; and what steps he is taking to improve the situation.

Mr. Chataway

My hon. Friend will realise that reception is liable to be specially difficult in mountainous areas. The B.B.C. and I.T.A. tell me that three additional U.H.F. television stations at Caldbeck, Windermere and Lancaster are expected to come into service in 1971 and will provide the television services in different parts of Westmorland. A fourth station is to be built at Kendal at a later date.

Mr. Jopling

asked the Minister of Posts and Telecommunications whether he will list the English counties which have a larger proportion of their population than Westmorland at present unable to receive B.B.C.1, B.B.C.2, independent television, Radio 1, Radio 4 and Radio 3 services adequately.

Mr. Chataway

The coverage attained by their services is primarily a matter for the broadcasting authorities. I understand that information is not available in the form sought by my hon. Friend but that the B.B.C. and the I.T.A. would be glad to provide such information as is available.