Mr. John David Taylorasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what progress has been made by each of the companies allocated the original 11 interim franchises for cable television; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Giles ShawI understand that parts of the systems in Aberdeen and Swindon are now operational and programme services are being provided to subscribers. The systems in Coventry, Croydon and Westminster are currently being installed and services are expected to start in there September. In the Clyde area, Ealing and Windsor, construction work is expected to begin shortly with a view to commencing operations towards the end of this year or early next. The remaining three areas — Merseyside, Belfast and Guildford — are in various stages of planning and may be in a position to serve their first customers in the early part of next year.