Untitled

Hokitika Guardian, 25 July 1931, Page 4

The Government is moving very slowly, and probably wisely with regard to the broadcasting question. At present all the favours go to the A class stations, while the B class (many of which are rendering excellent service) are without financial aid from outside. 'l’lie B class stations are denied the right of advertising, though ways arid means are being found in an ingenious way to give certain goods a degree of publicity over the air. In Australia advertising per medium of the broadcasting stations is well done, but we do not know that New Zealand listeners would appreciate the same degree of publicity in (he Dominion system. The time is at hand when the Government must make a decision as to the future control, as the existing contract is expiring shortly. The great degree of dissatisfaction is being expressed as to the present contract, though it will probably be expected that all centres might be treated the same as to hours. On the whole very fair programmes are put over the air, but the A class would he more in favour if its broadcasts were regularly maintained. The nights off and short hours drive listeners to B stations, which are making headway because of a readiness to cater with entertainment when the A class is not available. A more uniform service as to hours for the latter would rob B stations of much of their present favour. On the whole we favour the maintaniance of the present system with advisory control by the Government on behalf of the listeners and dealers who provide the fees. Those contributing the funds should have some voice in the general management; particularly affecting hours and programmes. With this concession there would be hone for greater satisfaction. Broadcasting has come to stay and its use and, service is growjin. It serves the whole world, and has immense possibilities in most useful service. With the cost of machines falling and their range increasing, the listeners will he a growing body providing more and more revenue for the perfection of the national service. It is incumbent to do the best for aft concerned, and the management requires to be experienced and practical.