Oftel Launches Conditional Access Review

Oftel has launched a review of the guidelines for conditional access services on digital TV platforms. Current arrangements for pricing, terms and conditions will be considered, as well as the issue of whether public service broadcasters should be charged at a different rates from commercial broadcasters. Oftel’s decision could have implications for both Sky Digital and ITV Digital, both of which are subject to current conditional access regulations.

David Edmonds, director general of telecommunications, announced the review today, saying: “The current regulatory regime gives companies the flexibility to negotiate terms and conditions, creating a considerable degree of regulatory certainty. However, as the market has developed so much in recent years, Oftel is now reviewing the conditional access regulations to see whether any changes need to be made. The review will look at whetehr Oftel should set the prices for conditional access services. Oftel also seeks views on what the fair, reasonable and non-discriminatory terms for the provision of conditional access services should be.”

The closing date for responses to the consultation is 25 January 2002. The consultation document is available on the Oftel website (see below) or from the Oftel research and information unit.

Oftel: 020 7634 8700 www.oftel.gov.uk

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