A row is erupting between the Government and the ITV companies over an amendment to the Broadcasting Bill, due to have its final reading in the Commons next week.
The amendment, which has been introduced without industry consultation, prevents ITV franchise holders from selling any teletext advertising space in their regions. The effect would be to leave Teletext, controlled by Associated Newspapers, with a near monopoly.
Leslie Hill, chairman of the ITV Association, has written a letter of protest to the Government. Under current ITC regulations the ITV companies can provide a regional or sub-regional teletext service, tailored to the needs of local advertisers.
It has been suggested that the Government has bowed to political pressure from Associated in advance of the general election.
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