§ Lord Pattenasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they are examining ways by which they can support public sector broadcasting other than through the BBC. [HL3717]
§ The Minister of State, Department for Culture, Media and Sport (Baroness Blackstone)In addition to the BBC, the public sector broadcasters are Channel 4 and S4C (the Welsh fourth channel). The communications White Paper made clear the Government's commitment to a plurality of public service broadcasting encompassing both public sector and commercial channels. The White Paper included an undertaking to review Channel 4's remit to ensure that the service continues to provide distinctive and innovative programming. It also confirmed the continuing importance of S4C in providing a distinctive public service for Welsh speakers. The Communications Bill, to be published in draft shortly, will contain detailed proposals to give effect to the White Paper policies.