HC Deb 18 March 2004 vol 419 cc441-2W
Llew Smith

To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport pursuant to the answer to the hon. Member for Coventry, South (Mr. Cunningham) of 2 March 2004, Official Report, column 825W, when she expects the review of legal constraints on digital television signals to be completed. [161919]

Estelle Morris

The Digital Action Plan identified a need to review planning rules ahead of any decisions about the timing of digital switchover. My right hon. Friend the Deputy Prime Minister published a consultation paper in April 2003 setting out proposals for possible changes to the planning rules governing the installation of satellite dishes and other antenna. ODPM are considering the responses and will announce whether any changes are necessary in good time before switchover happens The Northern Ireland Office and Welsh Assembly Government have consulted separately and will announce any changes in due course. The Scottish Executive is planning to consult shortly on possible changes to Scottish planning rules.