HC Deb 28 July 1981 vol 9 cc383-4W
Sir Patrick Wall

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will give his estimate as to the number of illegal 27 MHz AM citizens band sets now operating in the United Kingdom.

Mr. Whitelaw

The available information is not sufficient to form a reliable estimate, but present indications are that the number of illicit users of 27 MHz AM citizens band equipment is now significantly higher than the figure given in the reply to a question by my hon. Friend the Member for Faversham (Mr. Moate) on 7 May.—[Vol. 4, c. 256.]

Sir Patrick Wall

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will give an estimate as to the length of time before he is in a position to authorise the use of the lower end of the 26 to 28 MHz band for citizens band radio users.

Mr. Whitelaw

I regret that this is not possible at this stage. My first priority must remain the introduction of a viable legal service in the autumn.

Sir Patrick Wall

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will now announce his decision on the proposed derating of citizens band radio aerials.

Mr. Whitelaw

This matter is still under review.

Sir Patrick Wall

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will announce the date for the introduction of a legal citizens band radio service.

Mr. Whitelaw

I have nothing to add at this stage to the answer I gave in reply to a question by my hon. Friend on 24 June.—[Vol. 7, c. 104.]