§ Mr. Peter AinsworthTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what plans he has for a public information campaign to advise consumers about the choices available in the digital television market. [106353]
§ Mr. Chris Smith[holding answer 24 January 2000]: The Government's objectives are to encourage the take-up of digital services by ensuring that consumers have clear and objective information about the benefits of digital television, the choice between free-to-air and pay services, the availability of various packages and platforms and the equipment needed to receive digital services. The Government also want to reassure consumers about the timetable and process for digital switch-over. With these objectives in mind, I had an initial meeting with leading figures in the broadcasting industry last November to discuss a prospective public information campaign. My officials are currently taking this process forward with the aim of launching an industry-wide campaign in the next few months.