§ Mr. Peter AinsworthTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what representations he has received from the BBC regarding the provision of a free BBC internet access service; and if he will make a statement. [91432]
§ Mr. Chris Smith[holding answer 15 July 1999]: I have received no representations from the BBC on the provision of a BBC internet access service. The BBC has, however, explained that BBC Worldwide has reached agreement with Scottish Power Telecommunications for the supply of services, including internet connectivity, other internet based services, and a telephone support service. The service supplied by Scottish Power Telecommunications will be provided to the public by BBC Worldwide under its own brands. I have been assured that this is a wholly commercial arrangement with no licence fee funding and that the BBC's commercial policy and fair trading guidelines will apply in full.