HC Deb 29 October 1970 vol 805 cc195-6W
Mr. Elystan Morgan

asked the Minister of Posts and Telecommunications what plans he has for improving the present low quality of reception of television and radio programmes in the Llandyssul area of Cardiganshire.

Mr. Chataway

The B.B.C. and I.T.A. are primarily responsible for the extension of coverage and the improvement of reception of their services. They tell me that Llandyssul lies within the area to be served by the U.H.F. station at Preseli. Transmissions of B.B.C.-2 from this station are being planned to start in the second half of 1973 and it is hoped that those of B.B.C. Wales and I.T.V. (Harlech) will start at the same time or shortly afterwards. The B.B.C. has no plans to improve reception of its sound programmes.

Mr. Elysian Morgan

asked the Minister of Posts and Telecommunications by what date he estimates that all areas in Cardiganshire will be able to receive both the B.B.C. Wales and B.B.C.-2 programmes.

Mr. Chataway

B.B.C.-2 will be transmitted from the U.H.F. station at Blaen Plwf which will open shortly and Preseli which is expected to open in 1973. It is hoped that transmissions of B.B.C. Wales will start shortly after Preseli opens but the dates have still to be decided. As to the parts of Cardiganshire which will not be served by these stations, I have nothing to add to my reply to the hon. Member on 21st July.—[Vol. 804, col. 105.]