§ Mr. HinchliffeTo ask the Secretary of State for National Heritage if she will make a statement on local and regional access to future digital terrestrial broadcasting. [38540]
§ Mr. Sproat[holding answer 26 October 1995]: Digital terrestrial broadcasting will provide opportunities for national, regional and local television and radio services. The Government's proposals for digital broadcasting are set out in "Digital Terrestrial Broadcasting", Cm 2946. Those proposals are designed to let viewers and listeners have access as soon as possible to digital terrestrial broadcasting; ensure that there is a wide range of services appealing to a variety of tastes and interests, including regional and local interests; and give broadcasters the opportunity to provide services in a fair and effective competitive market.