Written question asked by Syd Rapson (Labour) on Wednesday, 2 February 2005, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 1 March 2005. It was answered by Baroness Morris of Yardley (Labour) on Tuesday, 1 March 2005 on behalf of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.

Dept for Culture Media and Sport

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, when she expects to announce the areas of the United Kingdom in which digital switchover will first take place; what criteria will be used in determining the order in which digital switchover will be introduced in the regions; if she will make a statement on her plans to implement a regional roll out of digital switchover.

Answer: Syd Rapson: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport (1) when she expects to announce the areas of the United Kingdom in which digital switchover will first take place; [214544] (2) what criteria will be used in determining the order in which digital switchover will be introduced in the regions; [214545] (3) if she will make a statement on her plans to implement a regional roll out of digital switchover. [214546] Estelle Morris: The Government will confirm the timetable once all the remaining issues relating to digital switchover are resolved and we are satisfied that the interests of consumers, especially the most vulnerable, are well protected. The order in which regions will be switched off is not one for the Government: it will be based on technical criteria and agreed between broadcasters, multiplex operators and Ofcom. We expect Ofcom to issue a statement on the indicative regional order shortly.

Secondary information