HC Deb 15 November 1990 vol 180 cc183-4W
Mr. Madden

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what regulations apply to the use in the United Kingdom of radio scanners; what are the main requirements of such regulations; whether he proposes to extend such regulations or to alter the requirements of existing regulations; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Redwood

The use of radio scanners to listen to private messages is an offence under section 5(b) of the Wireless Telegraphy Act 1949 if done otherwise than under the authority of the Secretary of State or in the course of duty as a servant of the Crown. The Broadcasting Act 1990 will amend the Wireless Telegraphy Act so that scanners may be ordered forfeit by the court under section 14 upon conviction. There are no other proposals to extend or alter section 5(b).

Mr. Chope

Remote signs to advise drivers of major incidents ahead are currently provided on our motorways only for major roadworks.

The primary source of information about unforeseen events is radio reports.

The Department is investigating means of improving driver information in such circumstances and I will write to my hon. Friend with more details.