§ Mr. WoolasTo ask the Secretary of State for National Heritage what assessment he has made of the availability of suitably qualified candidates from colleges and universities for the new jobs in broadcasting that may be expected from the advent of digital broadcasting. [6147]
§ Mr. FisherThe Government are committed to the objective that all new entrants into the industry should have a suitable qualification by 2000. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Education and Employment and I will be working closely with broadcasters and training providers to ensure that this target is met.
§ Mr. WoolasTo ask the Secretary of State for National Heritage what estimate he has made of the number of jobs which will be created as a result of the successful bid by British Digital Broadcasting in(a) the United Kingdom and (b) Greater Manchester. [6146]
§ Mr. FisherIt is not possible at this stage to identify the number or location of new jobs which will be created. Undoubtedly, however, the successful launch of digital television in the UK offers the prospect of a large number of jobs across the country, in broadcasting, production, equipment manufacturing and associated services.