ITC Launches Consultation On Programme Guides

The Independent Television Commission has published a draft Code of Conduct on Electronic Programme Guides (EPGs) for public consultation.

EPGs are the electronic menus which viewers will increasingly be calling up on their TV screens to select the television programmes they wish to watch. Of particular concern to the ITC is that the assembly and packaging of TV schedules by the EPG provider, which will require a licence from the ITC, will be fair and non-discriminatory. One of the TV industry’s main fears is that if a broadcaster such as BSkyB became an EPG provider, it could then ensure that all of its programmes were in a prominent position while its rivals would be “hidden” amongst the many other channels which will be launching as part of digital TV.

EPG services will also be subject to consumer protection regulation covering advertising and sponsorship.

ITC: 0171 255 3000