§ Mr. RuffleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport by what criteria she will assess the continuing need for the statutory ban on Christian broadcasters holding different categories of broadcasting licence when reaching a conclusion on these issues prior to the publication of the Communications Bill. [50579]
§ Dr. HowellsIn considering whether to restrict religious bodies holding broadcasting licences, the Government takes into account, amongst other things, the need to promote the efficient use of scarce resources in order to safeguard pluralism, cater for a variety of tastes and interests and avoid discrimination between the many different religions practised in the United Kingdom.