Written question asked by Nick Harvey (Liberal Democrat) on Friday, 22 November 2002, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 3 December 2002. It was answered by Kim Howells (Labour) on Tuesday, 3 December 2002 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, what proposals she has for a future regulatory system for broadcasting which recognises market and technological developments; and if she will make a statement.

Answer: Nick Harvey: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what proposals she has for a future regulatory system for broadcasting which recognises market and technological developments; and if she will make a statement. [83743] Dr. Howells: On 19 November, my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State introduced the Communications Bill, which will establish the new regulatory framework for broadcasting and the communications industries. This framework recognises, both within Ofcom's general duties and the detail of the regulatory provisions, the importance of competition, of investment and of innovation in delivering the dynamic market for communications services which we want to see in the United Kingdom. A dynamic, competitive market will encourage the development and take-up of new technologies, to the benefit of business, consumers and the UK economy. The proposals in the Bill also address the challenges of technological convergence, in providing for regulation by a single body and for a flexible regime capable of accommodating further change.

Secondary information