§ Mr. Don FosterTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport (1) what measures her Department has put in place to safeguard children's radio; and if she will make a statement; [141406]
(2) what discussions her Department has held with (a) the BBC, (b) commercial broadcasters and (c)other bodies on the establishment of a designated children's digital radio channel. [141407]
§ Estelle MorrisThe licensing of commercial radio services is a matter for the Radio Authority and, from 29 December, Ofcom. This Department has therefore had no discussions about establishing a designated children's radio channel. The authority as already licensed a number of digital radio services for children and one of the community radio pilot services is a children's service. In the case of the BBC, Charter Review will provide the occasion for an examination of all aspects of the Corporation's activities, including its role in relation to children and young people.
§ Mr. Don FosterTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what discussions her Department has held with Ofcom on the(a) rights and (b) needs of children in broadcasting.[141408]
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§ Estelle MorrisOfcom is due to assume the majority of its regulatory functions only on 29 December. To date, my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State has written to the Chairman of Ofcom asking him to consider proposals for strengthening the existing code on advertising food to children and to inform her of Ofcom's plans to promote greater media literacy among children.