Digital Britain report published

Today’s Digital Britain report has laid out plans for universal broadband access by 2012 and a digital radio upgrade by 2015.

Broadband

Speaking this afternoon, culture secretary Ben Bradshaw said that BBC licence fee money will fund universal broadband alongside a “small levy” of 50p per month on all fixed telephone lines.

Local News

He added that a “small part” of the licence fee digital switchover surplus would fund three ITV regional news pilots in Scotland, Wales and one English region between now and 2013.

Radio

The report includes a recommendation that – with the digital upgrade for radio now set for the end of 2015 – all new car radios sold in the UK by the end of 2013 should be digital.

The government has also committed to working with European partners, including the European Commission, to develop a common European approach to digital radio.

Channel 4

Channel 4 faces some changes, with the government inviting its board to respond to its proposals to:

• Update the statutory remit of Channel 4 to include providing public service content, promote creativity and new talent across all digital media
• Make the broadcaster’s remit less television-centric,
• And with clear commitments to national and international news – programming for older children and young adults – original, high quality content, including film, which provides alternative perspectives and reflects Britain’s diversity – developing content through partnerships with other British cultural organisations

The report adds: “In looking to secure a long-term and stable financial footing for Channel 4, the Government has considered a range of options, including a joint venture between C4 and BBC Worldwide; a merger between C4 and a private sector partner; creating a new commercial entity; and options for a standalone C4.

After detailed examination, the government has concluded that:

• Partnerships of scale between C4 and BBC Worldwide have the potential to deliver significant value to both parties
• It welcomes the discussions between the BBC and C4 on a series of joint ventures including around digital channels, advertising and DVD sales, and is ready to provide the regulatory clearance for such joint ventures, if commercial terms can be agreed.”

Mobile

Looking at mobile, the report says that there should be an “acceleration of current and next generation mobile coverage and services”, including government support for increased wireless coverage across the country for 3G and next generation mobile.

There is also a proposed new role for regulator Ofcom to carry out a full assessment of the UK’s communications infrastructure every two years.

Prime Minister Gordon Brown said: “Digital Britain is about giving the country the tools to succeed and lead the way in the economy of the future.

“This report shows how we will ensure we have a world-class digital and communications infrastructure, that we promote and protect talent and innovation in our creative industries, that we modernise our TV and radio frameworks and support local news.

“Investing in areas such as broadband access for every home and business and the move from analogue to digital technology will bring benefits across the board, driving growth, enabling businesses to thrive, and providing new opportunities and choices for households right across the country. It is an essential part of building Britain’s future.”