§ 1. Sir Ian Orr-Ewingasked the Postmaster-General what estimate he has made of the cost to the British Broadcasting Corporation of setting up and operating for a year the experimental very high frequency local broadcasting stations; and why he has not allowed bodies other than the British Broadcasting Corporation to share in these experiments.
§ Mr. Edward ShortI would refer the hon. Member to the replies given to other Questions on this subject today.
§ 40. Mr. Danceasked the Postmaster-General what powers the proposed local broadcasting councils will have over the setting up and operation of local radio stations.
§ Mr. Edward ShortThe role of the Local Broadcasting Councils will be to advise and support the Station Manager in his task of providing the service. As the White Paper makes clear, it is the intention that the Councils will have the maximum possible voice in the direction and performance of the stations.
§ 41. Mr. Danceasked the Postmaster-General what discussions he had with the Musicians' Union about local sound radio.
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§ Mr. Edward ShortLike many other bodies which came to see me, the Musicians' Union represented their views on the objectives and organisation of a service of local radio.
§ 48. Mr. Eldon Griffithsasked the Postmaster-General whether he will take steps to ensure that the arrangements announced in the White Paper on Broadcasting for the operation of the experimental local radio stations will not result in the sponsorship of programmes.
§ Mr. Edward ShortThe conduct of the service provided by the local stations will be subject to the obligations under which the B.B.C. provide all their services. Under Clause 13 of its Licence and agreement, the Corporation may not broadcast any sponsored programme.
§ Mr. Bostonasked the Postmaster-General if he will now give further details about the local broadcasting experiments being arranged at his request by the British Broadcasting Corporation.
§ Mr. Edward ShortI would refer my hon. Friend to my Answer earlier today to the hon. Member for Hendon, North (Sir Ian Orr-Ewing) and other hon. Members.