7.
asked the Postmaster-General why reception of the B.B.C. Third Programme is so difficult in many foreign countries and British territories overseas; and what steps he proposes to improve it.
The Third Programme of the British Broadcasting Corporation is intended for listeners in this country and the transmitting arrangements are designed to that end and not for reception overseas. Items from the Third Programme are, however, included as opportunity offers in the programmes broadcast by the Corporation for reception overseas.
Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is a very widespread demand existing abroad for the Third Programme, and that its better diffusion would help enormously to assist the good work now being carried out by the British Council?
Yes, Sir, but one of the troubles is shortage of wavelengths.