§ The Minister for the Cabinet Office and Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster (Mr. Douglas Alexander)A new policy framework for Digital TV, which has been developed by the Office of the e-Envoy within the Cabinet Office, has been published today.
This new set of policies will provide guidance and co-ordination to central and local government in developing digital TV as a viable channel for delivering e-Government services to the consumers. It is the result of extensive work and consultation with key stakeholders across government, industry, and the public.
The DTV channel is an important tool in contributing to the Government objective of delivering all services electronically by 2005, with high levels of take-up. Currently, more than 11 million households in the UK have DTV, and the numbers are growing. DTV gives people the opportunity to access electronic government services in new ways, using the unique interactive and informational features of the medium.
The framework document encourages all tiers of government, industry, broadcasters and other leading bodies to work together on a co-ordinated approach to ensure DTV succeeds in delivering its potential.
Copies have been placed in the Libraries of the House.