HC Deb 24 June 2002 vol 387 cc645-6W
Mr. Yeo

To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what approval she is required to give before the BBC can(a) apply for and (b) operate a multiplex service licence. [63471]

Dr. Howells

[holding answer 20 June 2002]: Clause 2.4 of the agreement provides that "The Corporation may, subject to the prior agreement of the Secretary of State provide multiplex facilities for digital television and sound broadcasting frequencies" but does not require her approval for the BBC to apply for a multiplex service licence.

Mr. Yeo

To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport if she will list the circumstances in which her approval is required by the BBC. [63472]

Dr. Howells

[holding answer 20 June 2002]: My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State's approval is required under the following articles of the BBC's Charter:

  • 3(b)—ancillary services
  • 3(c)—commercial services
  • 3(c)—commercial services
  • 3(i)—transmission
  • 3(u)—joint ventures, partnerships, establishing companies and acquiring shares etc
  • 3(w)(ii)—borrowing limit
  • 17(i)—certain borrowings
  • 18(i)—the appointment of auditors
  • 24(i)—directions and approvals

and under the following clauses of the agreement:

  • 2.2(d)—local sound programme services
  • 2.3—the number and geographical coverage of national television and sound programme services
  • 2.4—multiplex facilities
  • 10.10—sponsorship and subscription
  • 14—non assignment.

The Charter and agreement also provides that the Secretary of State can give directions to the BBC under certain circumstances and that some matters relating to the World Service require the separate approval of the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs.