Written question asked by Hilary Benn (Labour) on Wednesday, 2 May 2001, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 10 May 2001. It was answered by Janet Anderson (Labour) on Thursday, 10 May 2001 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, if he will make a statement on the use of single channel 2 MHz digital channels for community broadcasting.

Answer: Mr. Hilary Benn: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport if he will make a statement on the use of single channel 2MHz digital channels for community broadcasting. [160500] Janet Anderson: Current practice is for frequency channels comprising 8MHz which provide a single analogue terrestrial service, or one digital multiplex carrying multiple programme services. I understand from the Independent Television Commission that it is unlikely to be feasible to employ channels of only 2MHz because transmissions would not be compatible with current European transmission standards and no existing digital television receivers would be capable of receiving such transmissions, in addition to other technical constraints. In planning for the transition from analogue to digital television the Government will consider all potential uses of spectrum. A post-switchover plan will be developed providing a clearer indication of the long-term prospects for local television.

Secondary information