HC Deb 10 March 1982 vol 19 cc418-9W
Mr. Cartwright

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will list all the licences granted for the operation of cable-based community radio stations, indicating which stations are currently operating and which have closed down.

Mr. Mayhew

The following companies have been licensed to provide local community sound programme services for distribution by cable over broadcast relay networks in the areas shown. The last three companies are not currently providing this service.

  • Basildon Community Transmissions Ltd., Basildon, Essex
  • Greenwich Cablecasts Ltd., Greenwich, London
  • Premierworth Ltd., Thamesmead, London
  • WSM Community Radio Ltd., Telford Salop
  • Aycliffe Community Radio Ltd., Newton Aycliffe, County Durham
  • Co-Ax Cable Communications Ltd., Milton Keynes, Bucks.
  • Swindon Viewpoint Ltd., Swindon, Wilts

Mr. Cartwright

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department when he expects to reach a decision on the granting of experimental low-powered VHF frequencies to community radio stations.

Mr. Mayhew

Community radio, whether or not on an experimental basis, raises important policy issues which require careful consideration. I cannot yet say when we shall be able to make a further statement.