[BC] They really said that?

[Mark Humphrey]

In these days when our Federal government expects to rake in millions
of dollars each time FM channels go up for auction, it's interesting
to reflect on the past.  While going through some old publications, I
found a quote from a period when the FCC had a different perspective:

"  Since the radio spectrum is public domain, the granting of a
license to operate a station is a valuable public privilege.  The
Commission, in carrying out its responsibilities under the
Communications Act, has frequently emphasized the statutory mandate
that broadcasting shall be conducted on a competitive basis, and has
sought to maintain a fair and even-handed treatment of competitors.

It is economically and socially unwise to concentrate the control of
broadcast facilities in the hands of a select few, and it is
economically and socially essential to keep the door open to the
fullest extent possible for newcomers."

Anyone want to guess the year in which the FCC said this?

Hint:  A major change in world politics took place during the four
weeks before this statement was made public.

Mark