§ 23. Mr. Alasdair MorganTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what discussions he has had with the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport regarding television reception in rural areas of Scotland. [114031]
§ Mr. WilsonThe Government are aware of the particular problems in receiving terrestrial television signals in rural areas. I understand that, with the introduction of digital television, new analogue transmitters are no longer being526W planned. However, the BBC and Independent Television Commission, which are responsible for the television transmission network, are now considering, in consultation with the digital broadcasters, the Government, and other interested parties, how to develop the coverage of digital television across the whole of the UK. The Government will ensure that no fewer than those who presently receive analogue television (in Scotland 98.1 per cent. of the population) can receive the main free-to-air channels digitally before the analogue signals are switched over. The process of switch over is subject to close liaison and consultation with all those involved, including viewers.