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Office of the Deputy Prime Minister

Answer

Paul Farrelly: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what remedies are available to residents when building developments interfere with the quality of television reception. [198690] Keith Hill: There are essentially two types of interference: electromagnetic interference, usually caused by a radio transmitter or other electrical equipment; and physical interference, due to some obstruction or reflection of the signal by a building or other large object, such as a crane. While the wireless telegraphy legislation is in place to avoid creating undue radio interference with other users (including domestic television sets), the second type of interference--physical interference--cannot be dealt with under radio legislation. There are, of course, a number of electronic ways to boost a weakened television signal, which is the result of interference from another building, many of which are inexpensive and widely available. In addition, digital television signals are generally more robust than analogue in terms of signal strength and are becoming accessible in an increasing number of areas. Thus, as viewers change to digital television, such problems as interference caused by reflections from structures can be expected to diminish over time.

Secondary information

Type

Written question

Reference

198690; 426 c1341-2W;426 c1345-6W

Session

2003-04

Subjects

Broadcasting reception Housing Property development Radio Television

Link

View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk