§ Lady Olga MaitlandTo ask the President of the Board of Trade what steps he is taking to promote the introduction of digital audio broadcasting in the United Kingdom; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. HeseltineDigital audio broadcasting—DAB—is recognised as a very important development in sound broadcasting, and I am anxious to ensure that its benefits and opportunities are made available in this country. I am therefore establishing a United Kingdom DAB forum to co-ordinate and promote plans for the introduction of DAB in this country and to liaise with those with similar interests in other countries, particularly elsewhere in Europe.
Participants will include broadcasters, equipment manufacturers, retailers, service providers and other interested parties. The aim is to enhance the potential benefit for United Kingdom industry and ensure that British people will be able to enjoy the benefits of DAB, including high-quality reception in cars and on portable receivers, and additional services that the new technology will make possible.
My officials will continue their efforts to secure sufficient radio spectrum for the first terrestrial DAB transmissions to begin when the first receivers become available, which is expected to be around 1995.