§ Mr. ThurnhamTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what steps are being taken to safeguard consumers' rights when the independent television companies are allowed to broadcast home-selling programmes; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. David MellorUnder our proposals on broadcasting, the Independent Television Commission will be required to draw up a code on advertising and sponsorship, with which its licensees must comply. In drawing up the code, the ITC will need to take account of the relevant provisions of the European Convention on Transfrontier Television. Article 12(3) of the convention states that forms of advertisements such as direct offers to the public for the sale, purchase or rental of products or for the provision of services shall not exceed one hour per day.
§ Mr. FlynnTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department when he next plans to meet the chairman of the Independent Broadcasting Authority to discuss broadcasting.
§ Mr. MellorMy right hon. and learned Friend keeps in regular touch with the chairman of the IBA on a wide range of broadcasting matters.
§ Mr. Simon CoombsTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many homes in Britain are receiving multi-channel television via satellite dish aerials on their own premises at the latest available date.
§ Mr. MellorWe do not collect information on this subject, but I understand that research carried out by Continental Research indicated that in October 1989 352,000 households had direct-to-home satellite dishes.