HC Deb 03 March 1987 vol 111 cc534-5W
Mr. Alton

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what information he has as to the percentage of television production currently provided by independent producers; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Mellor

The most recent information about the origin of programmes shown on United Kingdom television is contained in the annual reports of the BBC and IBA for 1985–86, copies of which are in the Library. The Government are discussing with the BBC and IBA means of achieving its target of 25 per cent. of original material on BBC and ITV being supplied by independent producers within about four years.