The EC is investigating the way BSkyB, the pay-TV broadcaster, supplies its material to the cable industry. It has asked Oftel, the UK telecommunications watchdog, to provide information concerning the company following a complaint from General Cable, a UK cable operator. General Cable claims that BSkyB’s high charges have forced it to increase its own… Continue reading EU: BSkyB Probe
The repeated use of bad language on radio and TV remains an issue of concern to most adults, says a new report released today by the Broadcasting Standards Commission.The importance of the watershed at 9pm was again stressed by respondents. It is used as a guide to likely content and allows parents to exercise some… Continue reading Bad Language Continues To Cause Concern
The European Commission has formally denied media reports that it intends to propose banning alcohol advertising in the EU. An EC spokesman said on 14 January: “There has never been any discussion or a proposal by the Commission aimed at prohibiting alcohol advertising and sponsorships. These reports are unfounded.” Meanwhile, the French government has acknowledged… Continue reading EU: Commission Denies Ban Extension
On 6 January the EP Environment Committee called for what it described as the current “profoundly muddled” state of EU food law to be made more transparent and user-friendly. In condemning the general confusion that exists in EU rules governing the use, labelling and advertising of genetically modified organisms (GMOs), MEPs want clear and new… Continue reading EU: MEPs Seek GMO Clarity
In Britain the new Food Standards Agency has been unveiled amid much criticism over who will fund its running costs, estimated as being at least £100 million a year. Much of that will be funded by levying charges on the food industry, including both wholesale and retail outlets. Critics have accused the FSA of representing… Continue reading UK: FSA Unveiled
Cable And Satellite Industry Round-Up 1997Cinema Industry Round-Up 1997National Press Industry Round-Up 1997Radio Industry Round-Up 1997TV Industry Round-Up 1997
Future Publishing has announced that Tim Barr will take the helm as editor of Future Music magazine as from the March issue.Barr has been a freelance writer for many music publications, including NME, The Face and Melody Maker. He replaces Andy Jones who has moved to Future’s new music title, The Band.Future: 01225 442244
The Independent Television Commission has provisionally awarded Restrictive Service Licences to Midland Broadcasting Corporation for a television service in the Leicester area and to Manchester Student Television to provide a service in the Manchester area. Both areas had been the subject of competing bids.In considering the applications, the ITC looked to fulfil two main criteria:… Continue reading ITC Awards Two RSLs
The events in the radio world of 1997 mean the Q4 1997 Rajar’s (released next Friday) are amongst the most eagerly anticipated listening figures ever. The first-time experience for Chris Evans of running the company and presenting the flagship show simultaneously at Virgin will be measured in terms of success early next month while the… Continue reading Radio Industry Round-Up 1997
The Manchester United club-dedicated channel is planning to begin broadcasting in August this year. The Manchester United Television (MUTV) project is a collaboration between the club, BSkyB and Granada (subscribers see Man United Channel Confirmed) and is currently recruiting staff for the August launch.BSkyB and Granada are also believed to be looking at similar TV… Continue reading Man Utd. Channel Prepares For Launch
