European Television Programming

HC Deb 10 June 2003 vol 406 c756W

Mr. Mullin

To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport who is responsible for enforcing the quota for original European television programming specified in Television Without Frontiers; what steps have been taken so far; who will be responsible after the enactment of the Communications Bill; and if she will make a statement. [117656]

Dr. Howells

To date, my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State has been responsible for reporting to the European Commission, biennially, in accordance with Article 4.3 of the Television Without Frontiers Directive. Performance by UK licensed broadcasters has been considered by the Commission in accordance with Articles 4 and 5, and therefore, no enforcement action has been required.

Future responsibility for quota provisions will be a matter for discussion between this Department and Ofcom.