§ Mr. Canavanasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what is the latest annual Government grant to the BBC for its World Service; and what plans he has for continuing or increasing this grant.
§ Mr. EnnalsThe BBC External Services grant in aid in the Supply Estimates for 1974–75 is £16,099,000. Further provision will be sought in Supplementary Estimates, including £2.9 million in the Winter Supplementary Estimates which will be laid before the House on 9th December.
The grant includes expenditure on the World Service. I expect this service to continue as at present broadcasting in English for 24 hours each day.