§ Mr. WyattTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport (1) when the independent production quotas for television will apply across all media including the internet; and when the independent production quota of 25 per cent. will be increased to 40 per cent. across all media. [80726]
(2) what plans there are to increase the independent production quota for broadcasting from 25 per cent. to 40 per cent.; and what plans there are to extend the 25 per cent. independent production quota in (a) radio and (b) web sites. [81824]
§ Dr. HowellsThe ITC are considering the independent productions quota as part of their review of the television programme supply market. We will consider any recommendations the review makes in this area. It is not our intention to apply the independent producers quota to web sites. We have received representations suggesting that BBC radio commits itself to an independent production quota similar to the one which currently exists for television services. The Department's officials are considering this issue with the BBC and others.