Early to Bed

Broadcasting's big brother, the Federal Communications Commission, may have succeeded where Mom and Dad have failed for years. With its latest ruling, the FCC may just be able to send the country to bed earlier. The ruling (which does not go into effect until September 1971) limits network programming to three hours during the prime-time hours of 7-11 p.m. Eastern time.

The idea behind it all was enlightened enough. Since networks now provide their affiliates with network-generated programs for prime time, reducing that supply promised to give viewers more locally produced shows. But will it? Chances are that local stations, to save money, will merely bring on local news shows, and then let the late-night talkfests start a little earlier. The local stations may get wealthier and audiences healthier, but hardly anyone will be wiser.

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