HC Deb 25 July 1951 vol 491 cc66-7W
88. Mr. C. I. Orr-Ewing

asked the Postmaster-General what was the composition of the special scientific committee which had been examining the problem of very high frequency and which reported to him at the beginning of July.

Mr. Ness Edwards

I was advised by members of my Department who had been examining the problems connected with very high frequency communications.

89. Mr. C. I. Orr-Ewing

asked the Postmaster-General if he will give further information as to the discovery of an entirely new method of broadcasting on very high frequency; and when he will be able to report on this development so that it may be studied by the British Broadcasting Corporation and the radio industry.

Mr. Ness Edwards

I am not in a position to amplify my previous remarks.

91. Mr. Kerr

asked the Postmaster-General what approaches he has received from the United States authorities, with a view to arranging to change the existing system of amplitude modulation for marine communication to that of frequency modulation; and if he will give an assurance that he intends to maintain his declared policy.

Mr. Ness Edwards

The Post Office has been asked by the United States authorities to reconsider, in the interests of world standardisation, its decision that amplitude modulation should be used for single-channel very high frequency maritime radio services in the United Kingdom. Discussions with United States representatives have not yet taken place but, as matters stand, I propose to support the case for amplitude modulation in any international discussions.