RADIO BROADCASTING

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 74, Issue 197, 21 August 1931, Page 8

RADIO BROADCASTING

DEPUTATION TO MINISTER PRESENT SERVICE DEFENDED. [ Per Press Association. ] WELLINGTON, Aug. 20. A deputation from the 2YA Wellington Alusical Dramatic and Advisory Committee waited upon the PostmasterGeneral to urge the Government to discountenance any alteration on the system of control and management under which the broadcasting service had been successfully established in New Zealand. Air E. Palliser, chairman of the committee, explained that the advisory organisation, which was distinct from, but was functioning in connection with the broadcast station 2YA Wellington, represented most of the musical and dramatic organisations of Wellington. The broadcasting service was a public utility for the general benefit of the community and not for the radio trade. It brought in touch a considerable number of listeners who appreciated to the fullest degree the present service. The failure of an extensive and energetic campaign of the Radio’ Listeners League to enrol more than a small number of licenses was evidence that there was not widespread dissatisfaction with the existing service. The committee’s opinion was that Government should not embark on further business undertakings.

The Afinister remarked that recent proposals by the Broadcasting Company would not give listeners any say in control, as the chairman’s casting vote might operate against them. A member of the deputation asked the Minister whether the company would ignore the rights and recommendations of the minority.

Mr Donald replied that that was how it appeared to him. He was impressed with the suggestion by a member of the deputation that legislation should be enacted to impose a penalty on anyone, who, through electrical leakages from power lines, machinery or appliances, caused interference with broadcast listening. The Minister said he would embody the suggestion in the legislation.