§ 13. Mr. Robensasked the Assistant Postmaster-General whether, in view of the distinct disadvantages to North of England listeners by reason of the North of England Regional and Northern Ireland programmes being broadcast on the same wavelengths, he will be prepared to give further consideration to the representations made by the various local authorities on behalf of their people and have these wavelengths separated.
§ Mr. BurkeMy noble Friend has given careful consideration to these representations. He sympathises with the natural desire of listeners in the North of England and Northern Ireland that their Regional programmes should be broadcast on separate wavelengths and he fully appreciates that the present arrangement is not entirely satisfactory. In view of the limited number of wavelengths at the disposal of our country, however, it is not possible to give universal satisfaction in allocating them; and after going into the question thoroughly with the B.B.C. the Government are satisfied that any arrangement other than that adopted by the B.B.C. would prove less satisfactory to listeners.