Chris Smith has placed the switch-over date from analogue systems between 2006 and 2010. He prioritised the interests of viewers and urged broadcasters to work together to make it happen.
Speaking at the Royal Television Society conference in Cambridge today, he set two tests to be met by broadcasters before the switch could happen: availability and affordability. Everyone who currently receives free-to-air analogue channels must be able to receive the same channels digitally, and have access to the internet, and the price of new systems must be within the price range of people on low and fixed incomes. He said it was time to “think daring thoughts” in order to make the most of the digital revolution.
He outlined government plans to drive forward change. A dedicated unit will be set up to discuss regulation of the industry and public service broadcasting will be placed at the heart of the digital system. Twice-yearly reviews will assess progress and a Viewers Panel will be set up with representatives from all parts of the UK, as well as consumer and pensioners groups to ensure all opinions are aired.
Smith’s message to broadcasters was simple: “It’s your job to make the digital revolution happen. It’s my job to make sure that it happens in the interest of the consumer.” This message comes as the two main digital broadcasters, ONdigital and BSkyB, are attempting to resolve disputes over the cross-availability of channels and sporting events (see Digital TV Wrangles Continue Over Sky Sports 2)
Broadcasters responded positively to his speech. ONdigital chief executive Stuart Prebble welcomed the news: “It means that within a few years, ONdigital will be just a phone call away for virtually every household in Britain. It gives confidence to manufacturers, broadcasters and viewers that the future is digital.”
Department of Media, Culture and Sport: 0171 211 6272
