Viewers’ views

Press, Volume CXI, Issue 32629, 10 June 1971, Page 4

Viewers’ views

Letters on television topics are subject to the rules applying to general correspondence. THE STEPTOES

Your eulogy of the new “Steptoe” series amazes me. I never look at the “Lucy” show, because of the spurious dubbed-in applause ad nauseam, and I was looking forward to “Steptoe.” At least, I thought, the 8.8. C. would be more honest about the spurious applause, but it is as bad as the American comedies.’ I thought the 8.8. C. would have more integrity and not inject sickening endless laughter. So far as I am concerned, Steptoe has had it. Cannot the technicians cut down on the spurious stuff? —E.C. DES O’CONNOR What pleasure to read a few lines other than derogatory ones from you regarding Des O’Connor. I was beginning to be convinced that either no letters were received in his favour, or that they were not being published. Like R. C. Smith, this household finds his show enjoyable and polished and almost the only programme to be watched by a whole family without embarrassment. I sincerely trust the N.Z.B.C. is not influenced, when programme planning and buying, by critics, reviewers or the letters chosen for publication: I would probably never see

Des O’Connor again after this series. While realising that few letters can be printed, is ‘it possible to give a rough estimate of how many “fors” and “againsts” you receive regarding any one programme? I only hear about house-to-hdhse television census callers, ,but never see any.—PLAIN JANE.

[All letters complying with the rules governing publication are printed. None on “The Des O’Connor Show” has been rejected on that score. Only two on this programme have been received. “Plane Jane’s” is the second one.] DEAN MARTIN A wee comment on a letter signed “Bill Scott.” As I am a worker, I can only see television in the evenings and for me the “Dean Martin” show is the highlight of the viewing week. Six nights viewing out of seven should be more than a fair quota for your correspondent without his wishing to deprive Dean Martin admirers of their one hour of sheer enjoyment, particularly when it is placed as the last programme.—WlLLlAM ENGLISH. ANSWER TO CORRESPONDENT ANTI - REVIEW: Your letter will be published if name and address are supplied.