HC Deb 03 March 1925 vol 181 cc255-6W
Mr. A. V. ALEXANDER

asked the Postmaster-General what steps he proposes to take in connection with the contemplated Amendment of the Wireless Telegraphy Acts to make adequate and specific provision for preserving the right of amateur experiments in wireless communication?

Sir W. MITCHELL-THOMSON

I hope to make a full statement on this and other points connected with the Wireless Telegraphy and Signalling Bill upon the motion for Second Reading. Meanwhile I would call the hon. Member's attention to the fact that Clause 2 (1) of the Wireless Telegraphy Act, 1904, which confers the right referred to, is reproduced textually in the present Bill. I do not consider that the position of the experimenter is in any way prejudiced under the Bill.

Mr. MORRIS

asked the Postmaster-General if an applicant for a wireless experimental licence has first to declare the nature of his experiments?

Sir W. MITCHELL-THOMSON

It is the statutory duty of the Postmaster-General, before granting an experimental licence, to satisfy himself that the sole object of the applicant is to enable him to conduct experiments in wireless telegraphy. In order to fulfil this duty, an applicant is asked to state what scientific qualifications he possesses and the general nature of the experiments he desires to conduct. If his scientific qualifications are in themselves sufficient to justify the issue of a licence, no detailed information concerning his proposed experiments would be insisted on.