The Green Paper – Regulating Communications: Approaching Convergence In The Information Age – published today by the Department of Trade and Industry and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport sets out a framework for the possibility of merging telecommunications and broadcasting industries in the coming years.
Margaret Beckett, President of the Board of Trade, said: “The boundaries between different means of delivering information – television, phones and computers – are becoming increasingly blurred every day. That’s why the Government is looking to get the regulatory framework right so that we are able to welcome the new Information Age.”
Although this is a fairly dramatic development, the implications of the ‘Green Paper’ will not be recognized immediately, as the Government believes that the present structure is sufficient to cope with the current situation. In fact, the Green Paper was reluctant, if not unable, to predict the speed and direction of change in the coming years.
Despite this, change is inevitable, and promises opportunities for investment and competitiveness as well as the potential for a climate which may serve consumer interest and support access at an affordable cost. Chris Smith, Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, said: “In the light of the development of digital technology, fundamental changes in the delivery of broadcasting and telecommunications services are certain in the course of coming years.”
There is also speculation concerning the possibility of the merging of ITV companies, creating a single entity in place of the current regional network. This could create a possible war between the three companies which dominate ITV: Granada, Carlton and United News and Media. Last year already saw Granada taking over Yorkshire-Tyne Tees (see Granada Confirms YTTV Interest), and United News and Media taking on HTV (see United Swoops On HTV).
Department for Culture, Media & Sport: 0171 211 6272
