HC Deb 30 July 1981 vol 9 cc461-2W
Sir Patrick Wall

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what communications he has received from the European Economic Community or interested parties in the European Economic Community on the subject of citizens band radio.

Mr. Whitelaw

The European Commission has received a complaint alleging that our plans for introducing a legal citizens band service constitute a barrier to trade under the Treaty of Rome, and has asked us for our comments. We have also been asked to take part in a survey of practices within the member States of the Community carried out by a firm of consultants on behalf of the Commission. At an earlier stage, the European Citizens Band Federation, whose membership I understand to extend beyond the Community, urged me to adopt a specification which it favoured and which was well outside that recommended by CEPT.

Sir Patrick Wall

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what is his estimate of the number of illegal citizens band radio sets in use in the United Kingdom at present.

Mr. Whitelaw

I have nothing to add to the answer I gave to a question by my hon. Friend on 28 July.

Sir Patrick Wall

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what manufacturers will be able to supply frequency synthesis circuits for the legal 27MHz citizens band service within six months of the legalisation of this service.

Mr. Whitelaw

We understand that several companies plan to have available in quantity CB sets conforming to the legal specification in the autumn.

Sir Patrick Wall

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department, in view of the fact that following his announcement that United Kingdom citizens band radio was to use 27MHz many importers have bought 27MHz antennae for sale in the United Kingdom which are to be illegal under his proposed regulations, if he will reconsider his proposals for vehicle antennae since interference from high-gain antennae does not involve mobile stations.

Mr. Whitelaw

I have the question of aerials for CB equipment under review, and hope to announce my decision shortly.

Sir Patrick Wall

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he is satisfied that the 27MHz sets in illegal use at present can be easily converted to the new legal FM frequency.

Mr. Whitelaw

My responsibility is only to ensure that proper specifications for equipment are made for the protection of other users of radio.