HC Deb 25 October 2001 vol 373 c357W
Miss McIntosh

To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what criteria relating to quality of programmes and schedules she applies to decisions on granting and renewing television broadcasting licences. [10204]

Dr. Howells

Under the terms of the Broadcasting Acts 1990 and 1996, the licensing of television services is a matter for the Independent Television Commission. Channel 3 and Channel 5 licensees had to pass a programme quality threshold before the Commission granted their licences. Channel 4's distinctive and innovative remit is incorporated in its licence. Cable and satellite television services are not subject to statutory programming requirements.