HC Deb 23 March 1964 vol 692 cc17-9W
59. Mr. Gresham Cooke

asked the Secretary of State for Industry, Trade and Regional Development if he is aware of the recent action of the Performing Right Society in calling for an increase by more than five times in the fees to be paid by industrial premises in respect of music played as a background to work there; and whether, in view of the fact that in many factories

area; what were the comparable figures for 1961, 1962 and 1963; what was the percentage increase or decrease between the years 1961 and 1964, and 1962 and 1964; and what was the number of unfilled vacancies at the latest convenient date.

Mr. Whitelaw

the provision of music during certain hours of the day is regarded as an important contribution to productivity, he will take steps to control the fees charged by the Society, so that productivity is not damaged as a result.

60. Sir S. McAdden

asked the Secretary of State for Industry, Trade and Regional Development whether he is aware of a demand by the Performing Right Society for an increase by more than five times in their present charge for the use of copyright music in factories and industrial canteens, and that such increase will cause many factories to discontinue the use of music during work time with consequential loss of productivity; and whether, in view of the fact that the cost of taking a case to the Performing Right Tribunal is too expensive for any individual manufacturer to contemplate, he will take steps to give assistance to organisations representing manufacturers and workers to contest increased charges before this Tribunal.

Mr. D. Price

Disputes about such tariffs can be determined by the Performing Right Tribunal, established under the Copyright Act, which has the power to reduce any fees it considers to be unreasonable. I do not see what further steps are needed. It is not necessary to be legally represented before the Tribunal. The fees payable are £2 on a reference and £5 if a hearing is demanded. My right hon. Friend has no power to give financial assistance to parties before the Tribunal.