§ Mr. Lawlerasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what changes he proposes to make in the arrangements for issuing radio amateur licences; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Alexander FletcherWith effect from 19 September 1983, radio amateur licences will be issued and renewed on the Secretary of State's behalf by the Post Office headquarters in Chesterfield. The Post Office, which will computerise the operation as soon as possible, is prepared to guarantee a turn-round in normal conditions of five days and at peak times of ten. This will help to ensure that the recent improvement in the speed of issue of these licences is maintained.