§ Bob RussellTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport by what date all households in Essex will be able to receive digital television by(a) cable and (b) terrestrial distribution systems; and if she will make a statement. [6338]
§ Dr. HowellsThe Government are committed to ensuring that everyone who currently receives the main public service channels broadcasting on analogue will continue to do so digitally after the switchover to digital television, whether by terrestrial, cable or satellite means. The BBC and ITC, who are responsible for the digital terrestrial television (DTT) network, are considering, in consultation with the digital broadcasters, manufacturers, consumer groups and Government, how to improve the core coverage of all digital television multiplexes across the UK. Maps showing the current predicted DTT coverage from each of the UK DTT transmitter sites have been placed in both Houses on CD-ROM and maps are also available on the Digital Television Group website: www.dtg.org.uk. These show that most of Essex is served by the Crystal Palace, Sudbury and Bluebell Hill transmitters. Cable services are available in Essex, although coverage concentrates on areas of dense 809W population. It is for cable operators to decide on the roll out of their digital services and viability of extending services to non-urban areas.