Local Radio Stations’ Character Protected

National Heritage Secretary Virginia Bottomley yesterday announced new powers to ensure that the character of a local radio service is to be protected, regardless of changes in ownership of that service.

Speaking to the annual Commercial Radio Companies Association Congress, Mrs Bottomley announced an amendment to the current Broadcasting Bill which would allow the Radio Authority to vary the licence conditions of a local radio service, if, in the event of a change of ownership, there were concerns that the character of the service would be significantly changed.

The amendment has come about because of the relaxation of the two licence limit; the Radio Authority had expressed concerns to the Department of National Heritage that the relaxation might pose a threat to the character of local stations when taken over by a new management.

“Local radio has a particular place in the public’s hearts as the most immediate and personal medium. I intend that it should remain so” Mrs Bottomley said.

DNH: 01171 211 6200