Broadcasting and Television

Part of Oral Answers to Questions — Local Government and Regional Planning – in the House of Commons at 12:00 am on 16 December 1969.

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Photo of Mr Edward Heath Mr Edward Heath , Bexley 12:00, 16 December 1969

As the Prime Minister was present for part of that debate on radio and television, he knows my view that, as the Charter and legislation to renew the Corporation and Authority is not due until 1976, I agree with him it is premature to consider now the question of a Royal Commission. But would he not also agree that the report published since our debate, showing that the B.B.C. had a deficit of £4½ million in the year to add to the existing deficit of £3½million, shows that the problem of finance for the B.B.C. is as important and as urgent as was emphasised in all parts of the House during that debate and undoubtedly will lead to a lowering of its standards? Will he therefore arrange for his right hon. Friend to look again at the question as to how the B.B.C. is to maintain its standards if it has to continue for another year in its present position?