HC Deb 15 December 1986 vol 107 cc346-7W
Mr. Wheeler

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what action he proposes to take in respect of the resumed broadcasting to the east of England by the offshore Radio Laser on 576 metres.

Mr. Pattie

We are concerned about the re-emergence of Radio Laser which operates from a ship anchored in international waters. It is an offence under the Marine Etc Broadcasting (Offences) Act 1967 for anyone in the United Kingdom or a British national to assist in or be involved with a broadcasting station operating from the high seas. Prosecutions under the Act are the responsibility of the Director of Public Prosecutions to whom my Department reports any evidence it obtains on possible offenders. My Department will also continue to pursue with other European countries its efforts to fulfil our international obligation to prevent broadcasting from ships outside national territories.