[comtv-l] Local TV plans move forward

[CMA-L]

Local TV in the UK came one step closer to being a reality as Culture
Secretary Jeremy Hunt said that a series of individual stations could
be more feasible and faster to deliver.

“The Government is committed to localism – putting power in the hands
of citizens and neighbourhoods,” said Mr Hunt. “Local TV will be a key
part of that, giving people the local news and content they want and
helping local democracy to flourish.”

Also published is a summary of the 140 responses to the Local Media
Action Plan Consultation which looked at local TV proposals. One of
the key issues in the consultation was the model for delivery – a
national ‘spine’ or individually licensed stations. In parallel with
the consultation, ministers have also been looking at issues on
technical capacity, feasibility, implementation, costs and the overall
timetable.

“The consultation showed that there is incredibly strong support for
the principle of truly local TV. I have been particularly struck by
the large number of local groups – particularly outside of London –
who are keen to deliver this for their own communities. I have also
met local community groups and media organisations up and down the
country and have been impressed at their enthusiasm for delivering
their own local TV,” Mr Hunt added.

As a result of this consideration and the consultation responses, the
Culture Secretary is now considering a ‘bottom up’ approach of
individual licensed stations rather than a centralised ‘top-down’
approach, although he has not yet taken a final decision.

http://www.culture.gov.uk/news/news_stories/8170.aspx

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