§ Jim DowdTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what her policy is on when free to air digital services should include video provision for the Parliamentary Channel. [77466]
§ Dr. HowellsSince the launch of digital terrestrial television it has been possible to offer only an audio service for BBC Parliament. In its bid to the Independent Television Commission for the former ITV digital multiplex B, and in its subsequent application for a digital programme service licence, the BBC proposed to enhance this service by offering BBC Parliament in video on quarter screen. This arrangement allows the BBC to offer explanatory text simultaneously on screen in addition to the video service and to provide more services on the digital terrestrial platform. With the launch of Freeview this service will now be widely available.