ITC INVITE COMMENTS ON CONSULTATION DOCUMENT

THE ITC are inviting comments in their consultation document issued on a number of proposals, aimed at ensuring that location specific Restricted Service Licences (RSLs) continue to deliver local and community services.
The proposals are being suggested to ensure that the original objectives of the licences continue despite current trends, which include consolidation of ownership, and the expression of interest by big national companies in supplying services. There is a concern that, in the future, this may result in the networking of local services which would be contrary to the original intention behind the creation of such services.
The consultation suggests that not-for-profit services RSLs should be treated differently from those with business purposes. Both should have commitments to local and community services, with the business services type having a specific minimum commitment to programming for local audiences. Current licensees and future applicants would fall into one category or the other. Current licensees would have their licences amended accordingly.
The ITC's Chief Executive, Patricia Hodgson, said: “RSLs have proved to be a popular and important form of local broadcasting. We want to ensure they continue to provide a local focus for the members of the community in which they are based and continue to deliver what they were originally created to do. These proposals aim to achieve a balance between establishing a streamlined and simplified regulatory framework which will encourage continued investment, whilst ensuring services which remain true to particular communities.”
A full copy of the consultation document and proposed amended licence is available on the ITC website at www.itc.org.uk. (CD)