§ Mr. Topeasked the Minister of Posts and Telecommunications whether he will take steps to lift the restriction on television operations on New Year's Day, bearing in mind the fact that this particular day is now a public holiday throughout the United Kingdom and that it has special significance to the people of Scotland.
§ Sir J. EdenNo, but in view of the significance attached to New Year's Eve, particularly in Scotland, the Government decided that the restrictions should not apply on 31st December.
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§ Mr. Robert Cookeasked the Minister of Posts and Telecommunications whether he has now concluded his discussions on the levy to be paid by independent television; and if he will make a statement.
§ Sir J. EdenI said in July that the Government had concluded that the levy should be increased and that discussions would take place between the IBA and the television companies on a new system in which the levy would be based on profits. I can now announce that legislation will be introduced providing for a levy which will operate at a rate of 667 per cent. on profits, after a free slice of £250,000 or 2 per cent. of the contractor's advertising revenue, whichever is the greater.