Obstacles In The Way Of Virgin Radio Sale

Before Capital Radio Plc can go ahead with its proposed acquisition of Virgin Radio, the Radio Authority has to determine whether the holdings of the three local licences, Capital 95.8 FM, Capital Gold 1548 AM and Virgin 105.8 FM London, could operate against the public interest. The Authority is inviting comment from interested parties, and the public, on the public interest implications of the proposed acquisition.

The considerations that must be taken into account are:

A – any reduction in plurality of ownership of local radio stations within the Greater London area that would result from a decision to allow the licences to be held together.

B – the effect of the sale on the range of programmes and diversity of information available on independent stations in that area.

Comments on these matters must be received by The Authority by June 11.

The Radio Authority

Holbrook House

14 Great Queen St

London WC2B 5DG

Tel: 0171 405 7058