§ Mr. Michael McNair-Wilsonasked the Prime Minister whether the report on cable systems prepared by the Information Technology Advisory Panel will be published; and if she will make a statement.
§ The Prime MinisterThe report of the Information Technology Advisory Panel on cable systems will be published on 22 March and copies will be placed in the Library of the House. The report concludes that the installation of modern cable systems in the United Kingdom could bring significant industrial and commecial benefits. The Government recognise the importance of the panel's arguments and wish to secure the benefits of this new technology for the United Kingdom. There are, however, important issues, including those of telecommunications and broadcasting policy, raised in the report which require detailed and urgent examination, in214W consultation with the interests concerned, and arrangements for this are now being made. My right hon. Friend the Home Secretary will be making a further early statement on how examination of the broadcasting issues is to be carried forward.