Television (Broadcasting Hours)

HC Deb 12 December 1956 vol 562 c55W

94. Sir R. Cary

asked the Postmaster-General what changes are contemplated in the rules on television broadcasting hours.

Dr. Hill

The Government have decided that within the present maxima of 50 hours a week and 8 hours on any one day, both bodies should, on weekdays, be free to broadcast during the periods they think hest to meet the needs of their audiences. On Sundays it will still be the rule that normal programmes must not start before 2 p.m., and there will be an evening break from 6.15 p.m. to 7.25 p.m.

The normal maximum hours may be exceeded, and other rules waived, for certain stated purposes such as religious broadcasts, broadcasts of outside events and Welsh language broadcasts.

The revised rules may be introduced from Saturday, 16th February. They will of course continue to be subject to review in the light of circumstances. Copies of the revised rules have been placed in the Libraries of both Houses.