The Department for Trade and Industry has said that it will be lifting the restriction which has stopped public telecoms operators (PTOs) from offering broadcast entertainment services. This will be particularly welcome for BT which will be keen to compete with the likes of Cable & Wireless Communications in the cable TV business.
Margaret Beckett, president of the Board of Trade, announced the Government’s conclusions on the restrictions in ‘Broadband Britain: A Fresh Look at the Broadcast Entertainment Restrictions’. It means that there will be a gradual lifting of the current rules.
The immediate effect is to enable PTOs to compete in the provision of services to the 17% of homes which currently do not have access to a cable network. From January 1 2001 PTOs will be able to offer services throughout the country.
While the final removal of the restrictions will require primary legislation, the ITC will be involved in implementing the immediate effects of the rule change.
DTI: 0171 215 5000
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