HC Deb 02 November 1994 vol 248 c1188W
Mr. Allen

To ask the Secretary of State for National Heritage what encouragement his Department is giving to develop digital services.

Mr. Dorrell

On 14 July, the Government announced plans for the introduction of digital terrestrial television. Together with the Department of Trade and Industry, my Department is continuing to look at how best to take advantage of the opportunities digital television offers.

Mr. Allen

To ask the Secretary of State for National Heritage when his Department expects to bring forward proposals arising from the BBC White Paper; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Dorrell

Comments on the White Paper were invited by 31 October. I will consider the comments received before preparing the new royal charter and agreement which will govern the BBC's activities in the future. I expect to prepare these documents during the course of 1995.

Mr. Allen

To ask the Secretary of State for National Heritage what is the latest information on his Department's exploration with the BBC of the privatisation of transmission services.

Mr. Dorrell

I have appointed consultants to consider the options for the future of the BBC's transmission service, and to make recommendations.