More ITV, and reports that the broadcaster may hand back its eleven Channel 3 licences in a bid to free itself from its public service obligations. The move would basically see the broadcaster cease to operate the terrestrial third channel, presumably focusing its energies on its digital stations, and presumably making ITV1 digital only. Stopping terrestrial broadcasts would have an impact on ITV's audience reach, though given the government is keen to turn everyone over to digital in the next five years anyway, that impact is less now than ever before. ITV would, though, also lose its guaranteed third place positioning on electronic programme guides on digital TV platforms. Cynics would argue that ITV wouldn't really give up its third channel licences, but that it is letting it be known that they are considering such an option in a bid to strengthen their hand while negotiating with OfCom to reduce their public service commitments - such negotiations are ongoing regarding news, children's and regional programming.
Apr 29, 2008
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1 min read
ITV may threaten to hand back third channel licences
ITV reportedly may hand back its eleven Channel 3 licences, a move that could be used to strengthen its hand in talks with OfCom over public service obligations.