§ Mr. CryerTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what discussions he has held with the chair and members of the Independent Television Commission 549W regarding the intention of the television and radio franchise holders to charge newspapers for programme information; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Peter LloydMy right hon. Friend has not held any discussions with the chairman or members of the Independent Television Commission on this issue. The use of programme information is a matter for commercial arrangements between broadcasters and those who wish to publish the information. The Broadcasting Act 1990 makes provision for adjudication by the copyright tribunal if a publisher considers that the fee being charged by the broadcaster is unreasonable.