POSITIVE RESPONSE TO GOVERNMENT WHITE PAPER

THE Government’s proposal for a new single regulator for communications, an Office of Communications (OFCOM), has received overwhelming support from respondents.
Independent consultants, David Graham & Associates, published a summary of the responses to the proposals made in the Government White Paper ‘New Future for Communications’ which was announced in December last year.
Culture Secretary Chris Smith (pictured) said: "Some 250 organisations and individuals have submitted general responses to the White Paper which my Rt. Hon. friend the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry and I announced on December 12 last year.
"The overall thrust of the White Paper was largely welcomed by respondents, and it was notable that the overwhelming majority expressed support for the creation of a new single regulator, an OFCOM.
"More specific issues attracted a range of views. These responses are being placed on the Communications White Paper website (www.communicationswhitepaper.gov.uk), except where the respondent requested otherwise.
"In addition, some 6,500 letters and email messages have been received specifically in support of Christian broadcasting and these are also being taken into account.
"A summary of these responses by independent consultants, David Graham & Associates, has also been published on the website and copies have been placed in the Libraries of both Houses."
Ministers will now consider the responses in detail. (CD)