European Satellite Row Continues

The Department of National Heritage has confirmed that it is being taken to court by the European Commission over its interpretation of rules on jurisdiction over satellite broadcasts. The Commission is insisting that Britain should have no jurisdiction to prevent satellite companies from broadcasting in Britain; this could remove Britain’s right to stop Continental satellite companies such as Red Hot Dutch broadcasting here.

Britain believes the Commission is wrong and is intending to fight the case. It says that its jurisdiction will apply if European satellite broadcasters attempt to station satellite dishes in this country. MPs are claiming that Britain’s right to stop pornographic material being broadcast is at stake.