§ Mr. Jim CunninghamTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport whether her policy on the promotion of media literacy includes references to hearing and sight-impaired people having access to television services. [85814]
§ Dr. Howells[holding answer 10 December 2002]Our policy on media literacy, set out in the statement published on October 2001 and developed in the duty to be laid on OFCOM under the Communications Bill, is not focussed specifically on people with sensory impairements. It is to help everyone manage the new media environment more safely. In carrying out this duty, as indeed in their other work, OFCOM must as appropriate have regard to the needs of people with disabilities.
533WOther specific provisions set new, higher targets for subtitling and audio-description and require OFCOM to produce a code promoting the understanding and enjoyment of television services by those with hearing or sight impairment.