Written question asked by Ian Bruce (Conservative) on Monday, 2 April 2001, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 5 April 2001. It was answered by Kim Howells (Labour) on Thursday, 5 April 2001 on behalf of the Department of Trade and Industry.

Dept of Trade and Industry

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, when he expects to receive the Office of Fair Trading's report into BSkyB; and what his Department's policy is on promoting choice and competition within the digital television market.

Answer: Mr. Ian Bruce: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry when he expects to receive the Office of Fair Trading's report into BSkyB; and what his Department's policy is on promoting choice and competition within the digital television market. [R] [157041] Dr. Howells: The Office of Fair Trading inquiry into the activities of BSkyB was made under the Competition Act 1998. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry will not therefore receive a formal report at the end of the process. The Director-General of Fair Trading will, however, keep my right hon. Friend informed of key developments. The Director-General expects to reach a view on whether or not an infringement decision should be issued against BSkyB by this summer. The Department of Trade and Industry supports choice and competition within the digital television market by supporting the development of all three digital platforms; cable, satellite and terrestrial.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 157041; 366 c244W
Session: 2000-01
Registered interest declared: Yes
Subjects: Consumers Competition Digital broadcasting Sky Protection Television
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk