Consultation Period Opened For BBC Choice

Culture Secretary Tessa Jowell is seeking views on the BBC’s new application for a digital television service to replace the evening schedule on BBC Choice.

The BBC has submitted a new proposal after Jowell refused approval of the first one in September this year (see Government Says No To BBC3). She surprised a large number in the industry who expected the plans to be waved through along with proposals for the repositioning of BBC Knowledge and for two new children’s channels. Jowell’s felt that the BBC’s proposals for a new youth channel reproduced what was already available.

In the executive summary of its new application, the BBC states “We firmly believe that young adults, although well educated about digital technology, nevertheless feel that digital television has little to offer them, and are under served by traditional public service broadcasting.” Those submitting views are asked to consider that the Secretary of State is looking for a service which is “truly distinctive”.

An executive summary of the application is available on the DCMS website. The consultation period will close on 25 January 2002, after which responses will be considered and a decision made in due course.

DCMS: 020 7211 6200 www.culture.gov.uk

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