Written question asked by David Drew (Labour) on Friday, 12 September 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 18 September 2003. It was answered by Baroness Morris of Yardley (Labour) on Thursday, 18 September 2003 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 discussions she has had with broadcasters on the retention of free-to-view broadcasting on digital satellite.

Answer: Mr. Drew: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what discussions she has had with broadcasters on the retention of free-to-view broadcasting on digital satellite. [130582] Estelle Morris: My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State has written to the chief executives of ITV, Channel Four and Five to ask them how they intend to solve this very serious issue. Their responses indicate they are considering various options. We are very closely monitoring their discussions, which I understand are making progress, and while it will not be appropriate to comment on current commercial negotiations, I will place details of their outcome on our website www.digitaltelevision.gov.uk.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 130582; 410 c959W;410 c957W
Session: 2002-03
Subjects: Access Digital broadcasting Channel Four Television Channel Five Broadcasting Fees and charges Exemptions Television Television channels Satellite broadcasting ITV Association
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk