Written question asked by Lord Dodds of Duncairn (Democratic Unionist Party) on Thursday, 31 October 2002, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 7 November 2002. It was answered by Kim Howells (Labour) on Thursday, 7 November 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 measures she is introducing to secure the future of (a) independent television broadcasters and (b) local programmes in Northern Ireland.

Answer: Mr. Dodds: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what measures she is introducing to secure the future of (a) independent television broadcasters and (b) local programmes in Northern Ireland. [79429] Dr. Howells: The Government are seeking to introduce a Communications Bill in the next Session that would include provisions intended to retain and strengthen the regional dimension to public service broadcasting. Under the new three tier structure for the regulation of broadcasting, OFCOM would have to agree targets with the public service broadcasters for regional (and where appropriate local) programming and/or regional productions. The Channel 3 service would continue to be licensed on a regional basis.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 79429; 392 c545W;392 c557-8W
Session: 2001-02
Subjects: Broadcasting Broadcasting programmes Commercial broadcasting Northern Ireland Local broadcasting Television
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk