Wilson hails communications revolution

12 Dec 2000

New measures announced today by the Government to modernise and develop the broadcasting and communications industries will offer huge benefits for Scotland, Scotland Office Minister Brian Wilson said today.

Commenting on the publication of the Communications White Paper "A New Future for Communications," Mr Wilson said:

"These proposals, which include measures to give consumers a better deal, ensure broadcasting standards, and allow sensible deregulation so that business can keep pace with rapid change, are great news for Scotland.

"The commitment to Independent Television Production is particularly important as it will provide a further boost for Scotland's thriving creative industries sector. The Internet, software and creative industries in Scotland employ some 27,000 people and make a vital contribution to the Scottish economy.

"Regional broadcasting is a key aspect of public service broadcasting, and these proposals will ensure that Scottish issues are well covered post-devolution. I also welcome the support for diverse linguistic communities and the commitment to consider the recommendations of the Gaelic Broadcasting Taskforce Report."

" We are all affected by the communications revolution through multi-channel television, e-mail and access to the Internet through our mobile phones and our TV at home. Today's proposals aim to ensure that citizens and consumers are able to maximise the variety of services, information and entertainment on offer."

"The White Paper aims to balance the responsibility of broadcasters to provide a wide range of top quality programmes with the need for modern regulation which allows them to operate efficiently. It upholds standards and maintains our commitment to the very best of public service broadcasting. I believe the White Paper sets out a clear way forward which will keep Britain at the head of a highly competitive market. It puts people first and gives the industry the freedom it needs - with responsibility - to continue to provide top quality services. I would urge everyone in Scotland with an interest in this matter to respond positively to the White Paper".

NOTES TO NEWS EDITORS

  1. The Communications White Paper "A New Future for Communications" is jointly published today by Department of Culture Media and Sport and Department of Trade and Industry. It sets out a range of proposals for consultation over the next two months. Comments should be sent directly to DCMS by 12 February 2001. The key proposals will:
  • Establish a single overarching regulator for communications.
  • Guarantee a better deal for consumers giving them a clear voice, better protection from negative content and a one stop shop for complaints.
  • Ensure broadcasting commitment to strong public service values and standards.
  • Allow for sensible deregulation so that businesses can keep pace with rapid change.
  • Create for the first time a 'level playing field' for British broadcasting .
  • Set out a regulatory framework which provides for strong competition but maintains quality and is flexible enough to accommodate and encourage future market development.

  1. Broadcasting is reserved to the Westminster Parliament under Schedule 5 of the Scotland Act 1998. Certain aspects of the White Paper impact on matters devolved to the Scottish Parliament.
  2. Copies of the White Paper and the accompanying summary document can be found at www.communications.whitepaper.gov.uk Print copies are also available from the Stationery Office Ltd. General enquiries 0870 500 5522 or by fax 0870 600 5533.
  3. Further details of the Communications White Paper are available from the press office of the Department of Culture, Media and Sport on Tel: 0207 211 6269