OFCOM AND ELECTRONIC PROGRAMME GUIDES

Early day motion 1274, tabled 25 May 2004 by John Grogan (Labour). Signed by 182 members.

That this House believes that the providers of electronic programme guides (EPGs) hold a significant position of power in deciding how digital television channels should be listed on the EPG; notes that certain channels are seriously limited in their ability to compete by their position on the EPG; further notes that it is in the viewers' interests for the position of channels on the EPG to reflect where viewers expect to find them; urges that in reviewing its code of practice Ofcom should introduce a requirement that EPG providers should periodically review the ordering of channels according to audience share; and looks forward to such a review ensuring that channels of public importance are able to deliver plurality of supply and compete on a fair and equitable footing in the delivery of digital television services.

Signatures by party: Conservative 68, Labour 67, Liberal Democrat 34, Labour/Co-operative 7, Plaid Cymru 4, Independent Conservative 1, Scottish National Party 1.