asked Her Majesty's Government:Whether, in furtherance of their policy to expand independent and community radio stations, they will refer to the Monopolies and Mergers Commission the terms and restrictions imposed by Phonographic Performance Ltd. in the licensing of the use of recorded music for sound broadcasting by independent radio contractors.

We will consider carefully whether this is a matter which warrants investigation by the MMC. It is not however our practice to comment on whether or not a particular matter is to be referred.