Digital May Create Inequality Of Access, Warns IPPR

A new report from the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) warns that the launch of digital television may result in a ‘television underclass.’

The Institute is concerned that the £200 cost of the set-top boxes required to receive digital television will force the poor out of the picture. The report says that there are many people who find it difficult to afford the licence fee let alone a further £200 for the receiver equipment.

The problem deepens when channels are only available as subscription services. The Access Matters report from the IPPR is particularly concerned with the danger of allowing too many exclusive rights to broadcast material. Exclusive broadcasting rights will promote pay-for services as well as put a stranglehold on the free flow of ideas.

The IPPR has put this question to the Government and has suggested that the funds gained from selling off analogue frequencies (as analogue TV is phased out) should be used to help people gain access to the technology which would then be required to receive all television channels.

Institute for Public Policy Research: 0171 470 6100