[cma-l] 50% Rules - CMA position

[CMA-L]

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Clive Glover <clive.glover at btconnect.com>

Jaqui

The discussions on the 50% rule drifted into matters of transmitter
powers and coverage.

I have already said that I don't think the 50% rule is a real
practical problem for most stations because of the ability to include
an "income" from volunteer time. This only works if you have lots of
volunteers doing lots of work for you of course!

But we have also moved our transmitter to a much better site. I have
to say that OFCOM - both in administrative and technical departments -
were very supportive of this and  allowed us to increase our coverage
as a result. Obviously we had to make a case and it all took some
months because of frequency clearances etc. But we did it and we are
very grateful and benefiting from this in terms of greater awareness,
leading to increased advertising too!

I would advise any other CR stations to consult with OFCOM and just
ask for exactly what they want (as long as they can make a reasonable
case) in terms of extra power or better coverage. There might be valid
reasons why they would say no but I would expect at least a
sympathetic hearing and probably some compromise at least.


Clive Glover
Radio Verulam, St Albans


On 12 Oct 2010, at 10:43, jaqui devereux wrote:

> Dear all
>
> We at the CMA note the concerns around the 50% rules re on air advertising and sponsorship.  However, whenever we consult the sector on what changes if any you would like to see in these and other regulations for community radio, more than 90% of respondents reply that they do not want that particular rule changing.  Therefore it would seem there is a clear steer for the CMA position on the 50% advertising and sponsorship rules, that that rule should remain in place.
>
> Re greater transmission power and coverage, some stations have negotiated with Ofcom to increase these, but at the moment Ofcom will only consider this issue on a case by case basis.  We will continue dialogue with them on this issue, on behalf of individual stations and the sector as a whole.
>
> We have had discussions with Ofcom looking at simplifying evidencing of social gain using output rather than input models, again we will continue this discussion with them.  However, changing the regulations on this would require primary legislation to amend the Communications Act 2003, so it is not in Ofcom's power to change the rules, it is a matter for government.  We will bring this point to the attention of DCMS should the majority of the sector think it appropriate.  Please let us know your thoughts on the matter.
>
> Hope that helps,
>
> Best wishes
>
> Jaqui
>
> --
> Jaqui Devereux
> Director, Community Media Association