I propose to take Questions Nos. 13, 22 and 50 together.
I am generally happy with the rate of progress of the multipoint microwave distribution system, known as MMDS, throughout the country. I am aware, however, that from time to time criticism is expressed regarding delays in the provision of the service. I have no reason to believe that these delays are unreasonable having regard to the scale of the project. Complaints made to my Department about the service provided by MMDS operators are investigated and the matter is dealt with in liaison with the licensee.
My main concern with regard to the provision of MMDS is the continued existence of illegal retransmission systems which make it very difficult for the licensed operators to penetrate large areas of the country. This, of course, results in delays in the provision of the service for subscribers in the areas concerned.
As the Deputy well knows, community TV is a euphemism for the illegal retransmission of TV signals and I have dealt with this issue on a number of occasions in this House, as have my predecessors. I want to take this opportunity to state again that I have no intention of licensing such systems now or in the future for the reasons given in my reply of 2 November 1993 — columns 587-590 of the Official Report of that day.
I have had meetings with public representatives concerning the operation of illegal TV retransmission systems. I have no plans to meet with those directly involved in such systems.