ISBA Backs Commercial Broadcasters In Freeview Struggle
ISBA is supporting ITV and Channel 4 in their bid to prevent the BBC cutting the number of commercial channels they will be able to show on the corporation’s new digital terrestrial platform, due to launch this autumn (see ITV Digital Will Be Sold As ‘Going Concern’).
The BBC has told the ITC that only four channels should be allowed on each of the six ‘Freeview’ multiplexes. However, it is understood that ITV and Channel 4 are offering six channels in the belief that any less would restrict viewer choice and rule out even a limited number of subscription services.
ISBA is keen that ITV and Channel 4 should be allowed to broadcast the maximum amount of channels, stating: “Advertisers are keen that commercial channels are well represented on the platform, especially given that an expanded BBC, offering several new digital channels, threatens to dominate it.”
The BBC is arguing that broadcasters wishing to transmit on the new Freeview platform, which will replace the defunct ITV Digital (see ITV Digital Will Be Sold As ‘Going Concern’), should adhere to the corporation’s frequency specifications. It claims that the number of channels should be restricted to ensure that the quality of the broadcast signal remains high.
ITV Digital was dogged by the poor quality of its digital terrestrial signal and the BBC has stated that the quality and reliability of its new service is paramount.
The ITC is currently holding a consultation on the issue and is hoping to respond by the end of this month. Speculation suggests that the regulator favours the BBC’s plan, however, a spokesman for the ITC said only that there would be a trade off between “better quality and fewer channels.”
Last month the BBC announced that the new Freeview platform will be sold as a “fresh start” for digital terrestrial viewers and would feature an extra three channels on top of the 28 already confirmed (see Free To Air Application Wins DTT Battle). Set top boxes will retail at £99 and will deliver interactivity and digital radio in addition to free-to-view TV services.
BBC: 020 8743 8000 www.bbc.co.uk
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