Broadcasting Act 1996

Part I U.K. Digital terrestrial television broadcasting

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C1 Pt. 1: transfer of functions (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 1 para. 3(a) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

C2 Pt. 1 modified (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), ss. 215(10)(c), 411(2) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

C3 Pt. 1 modified (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), ss. 241(1), 411(2) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

C4 Pt. 1 applied in part (with modifications) (14.2.2012) by The Local Digital Television Programme Services Order 2012 (S.I. 2012/292), arts. 1, 4, Sch. Pt. 1 (as amended (12.7.2012) by The Broadcasting (Local Digital Television Programme Services and Independent Productions) (Amendment) Order 2012 (S.I. 2012/1842), arts. 1, 3)

C5 Pt. 1 modified (13.9.2021) by The Television Multiplex Services (Renewal of Multiplex Licences) Order 2021 (S.I. 2021/941), arts. 1, 3, Sch.

Introductory U.K.

1 Multiplex services and digital programme services. U.K.

[F1 (1) In this Part “multiplex service” means (except where the context otherwise requires) a television multiplex service.]

F2 (1A) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F2 (2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F2 (3) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(4) In this Part “digital programme service” means a service [F3 (or a dissociable section of a service)] consisting in the provision by any person of television programmes (together with any ancillary services, as defined by section 24(2)) with a view to their being broadcast in digital form [F4 so as to be available for reception by members of the public], whether by him or by some other person, but does not include—

[F5 (za) a service [F6 (or a dissociable section of a service)] provided under the authority of a licence under Part 1 of the 1990 Act to provide a television licensable content service,]

(a) a qualifying service,

(b) a teletext service, or

(c) any service in the case of which the visual images to be broadcast do not consist wholly or mainly of images capable of being seen as moving pictures,

except, in the case of a service falling within paragraph (b) or (c), to the extent that it is an ancillary service.

[F7 (4A) In subsection (4), “available for reception by members of the public” means available for reception by members of the public (within the meaning of Part 3 of the Communications Act 2003) in the United Kingdom or another [F8 CTT State], or in an area of the United Kingdom or of such a State.]

(5) The Secretary of State may, if having regard to developments in broadcasting technology he considers it appropriate to do so, by order amend the definition of “digital programme service” in subsection (4).

(6) No order under subsection (5) shall be made unless a draft of the order has been laid before and approved by a resolution of each House of Parliament.

[F9 (7) In this section “broadcast” means broadcast otherwise than from a satellite.]

Textual Amendments

F1 S. 1(1) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 74(2) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F2 S. 1(1A)-(3) repealed (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 19(1) Note 1 (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F3 Words in s. 1(4) inserted (1.11.2020) by The Audiovisual Media Services Regulations 2020 (S.I. 2020/1062), regs. 1(2), 3(a)(i)

F4 Words in s. 1(4) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 74(3) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F5 S. 1(4)(za) inserted (25.7.2006) by The Television Licensable Content Services Order 2006 (S.I. 2006/2131), arts. 1(1), 4

F6 Words in s. 1(4)(za) inserted (1.11.2020) by The Audiovisual Media Services Regulations 2020 (S.I. 2020/1062), regs. 1(2), 3(a)(ii)

F7 S. 1(4A) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 74(4) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F8 Words in s. 1(4A) substituted (31.12.2020) by The Broadcasting (Amendment) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 (S.I. 2019/224), reg. 1(2), Sch. 1 para. 3 (with reg. 6) (as amended by S.I. 2020/1536, reg. 5(2)(3)); 2020 c. 1, Sch. 5 para. 1(1)

F9 S. 1(7) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 74(5) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

2 Meaning of “independent analogue broadcaster” and “qualifying service”. U.K.

F10 (1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

[F11 (2) In this Part “qualifying service” means any of the following, so far as they are provided with a view to their being broadcast in digital form—

(a) a television broadcasting service included in Channel 3;

(b) Channel 4;

(c) Channel 5;

(d) S4C Digital;

(e) a television programme service provided by [F12 S4C] with the approval of the Secretary of State under section 205 of the Communications Act 2003;

F13 (f) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .]

F14 (7) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

F10 S. 2(1) repealed (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 19(1) Note 1 (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F11 S. 2(2) substituted for s. 2(2)-(6) (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 75 (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F12 Word in s. 2(2)(e) substituted (23.8.2024) by Media Act 2024 (c. 15), s. 55(3)(c), Sch. 4 para. 18(a); S.I. 2024/858, reg. 2(1)(x)

F13 S. 2(2)(f) omitted (23.8.2024) by virtue of Media Act 2024 (c. 15), s. 55(3)(a), Sch. 2 para. 7; S.I. 2024/858, reg. 2(1)(v)

F14 S. 2(6)(7) repealed (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 19(1) Note 1 (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

Commencement Information

I1 S. 2 wholly in force at 1.10.1996; s. 2 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 149; s. 2 in force force certain purposes at 15.9.1996 and wholly in force at 1.10.1996 by S.I. 1996/2120, art. 4, Sch. 1

General provisions about licences U.K.

3 Licences under Part I. U.K.

(1) Any licence granted by [F15 OFCOM] under this Part shall be in writing and (subject to the provisions of this Part) shall continue in force for such period as is provided, in relation to a licence of the kind in question, by the relevant provision of this Part.

(2) A licence may be so granted for the provision of such a service as is specified in the licence or for the provision of a service of such a description as is so specified.

(3) [F16 OFCOM] —

(a) shall not grant a licence to any person unless they are satisfied that he is a fit and proper person to hold it, and

(b) shall do all that they can to secure that, if they cease to be so satisfied in the case of any person holding a licence, that person does not remain the holder of the licence;

and nothing in this Part shall be construed as affecting the operation of this subsection or of section 5(1) or (2)(b) or (c).

(4) [F16 OFCOM] may vary a licence by a notice served on the licence holder if—

(a) in the case of a variation of the period for which a licence having effect for a specified period is to continue in force, the licence holder consents, or

(b) in the case of any other variation, the licence holder has been given a reasonable opportunity of making representations to [F16 OFCOM] about the variation.

(5) Paragraph (a) of subsection (4) does not affect the operation of section 17(1)(b); and that subsection shall not authorise the variation of any conditions included in a licence in pursuance of section 13(1).

(6) A licence granted to any person under this Part shall not be transferable to any other person without the previous consent in writing of [F16 OFCOM] .

(7) Without prejudice to the generality of subsection (6), [F16 OFCOM] shall not give their consent for the purposes of that subsection unless they are satisfied that any such other person would be in a position to comply with all of the conditions included in the licence which would have effect during the period for which it is to be in force.

[F17 (8) The holding by a person of a licence under this Part shall not relieve him of—

(a) any liability in respect of a failure to hold [F18 a licence under section 8 of the Wireless Telegraphy Act 2006] ; or

(b) any obligation to comply with requirements imposed by or under Chapter 1 of Part 2 of the Communications Act 2003 (electronic communications networks and electronic communications services).]

Textual Amendments

F15 Words in s. 3(1) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 76(2) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F16 Words in s. 3(3)-(7) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 76(3) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F17 S. 3(8) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 76(4) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F18 Words in s. 3(8)(a) substituted (8.2.2007) by Wireless Telegraphy Act 2006 (c. 36), s. 126(2), Sch. 7 para. 17

4 General licence conditions. U.K.

(1) A licence may include—

(a) such conditions as appear to [F19 OFCOM] to be appropriate having regard to any duties which are or may be imposed on them, or on the licence holder, by or under [F20 this Act, the 1990 Act or the Communications Act 2003] ;

(b) conditions requiring the payment by the licence holder to [F19 OFCOM] (whether on the grant of the licence or at such times thereafter as may be determined by or under the licence, or both) of a fee or fees of an amount or amounts so determined;

(c) conditions requiring the licence holder to provide [F19 OFCOM] , in such manner and at such times as they may reasonably require, with such information as they may require for the purpose of exercising the functions assigned to them by or under [F21 this Act, the 1990 Act or the Communications Act 2003] ;

(d) conditions providing for such incidental and supplemental matters as appear to [F19 OFCOM] to be appropriate.

(2) A licence may in particular include conditions requiring the licence holder—

(a) to comply with any direction given by [F19 OFCOM] as to such matters as are specified in the licence or are of a description so specified, or

(b) (except to the extent that [F19 OFCOM] consent to his doing or not doing them) not to do or to do such things as are specified in the licence or are of a description so specified.

(3) The fees required to be paid to [F19 OFCOM] by virtue of subsection (1)(b) shall be in accordance with such tariff as may from time to time be fixed by [F19 OFCOM] F22 ....

(4) A tariff fixed under subsection (3) may specify different fees in relation to different cases or circumstances; and [F19 OFCOM] shall publish every such tariff in such manner as they consider appropriate.

(5) Where the holder of any licence—

(a) is required by virtue of any condition imposed under this Part to provide [F19 OFCOM] with any information, and

(b) in purported compliance with that condition provides them with information which is false in a material particular,

he shall be taken for the purposes of sections 17, 23 and 27 of this Act and section 42 of the 1990 Act to have failed to comply with that condition.

(6) Nothing in this Part which authorises or requires the inclusion in a licence of conditions relating to any particular matter or having effect for any particular purpose shall be taken as derogating from the generality of subsection (1).

Textual Amendments

F19 Words in s. 4 substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 77(2) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F20 Words in s. 4(1)(a) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 77(3) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F21 Words in s. 4(1)(c) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 77(3) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F22 Words in s. 4(3) repealed (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 77(4), Sch. 19(1) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C6 S. 4(1)(c) modified (20.7.2004) by The Contracting Out (Functions relating to Broadcast Advertising) and Specification of Relevant Functions Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1975), arts. 1, 10(1)(a)(2)(b) (with art. 5)

5 Restrictions on holding of licences under Part I. U.K.

(1) [F23 OFCOM] shall do all that they can to secure—

(a) that a person does not become or remain the holder of a licence if he is a person who is a disqualified person in relation to that licence by virtue of Part II of Schedule 2 to the 1990 Act (as amended by this Act); and

[F24 (b) that a person does not become the holder of a licence if requirements imposed by or under Schedule 14 to the Communications Act 2003 would be contravened were he to do so; and

(c) that those requirements are not contravened in the case of a person who already holds a licence.]

(2) [F23 OFCOM] may accordingly—

(a) require any applicant for a licence to provide them with such information as they may reasonably require for the purpose of determining—

(i) whether he is such a disqualified person as is mentioned in subsection (1)(a),

(ii) whether any such requirements as are mentioned in subsection (1)(b) would preclude them from granting a licence to him, and

(iii) if so, what steps would be required to be taken by or in relation to him in order for any such requirements to be complied with;

(b) revoke the award of a licence to a body where a relevant change takes place after the award, but before the grant, of the licence;

(c) make the grant of a licence to any person conditional on the taking of any specified steps that appear to them to be required to be taken as mentioned in paragraph (a)(iii);

(d) impose conditions in any licence enabling them to require the licence holder, if a body corporate, to give to them advance notice of proposals affecting—

(i) shareholdings in the body, or

(ii) the directors of the body,

where such proposals are known to the body;

[F25 (da) impose conditions in a licence requiring the licence holder, if a body corporate, to give OFCOM notice, after they have occurred and irrespective of whether proposals for them have fallen to be notified, of changes, transactions or events affecting—

(i) shareholdings in the body; or

(ii) the directors of the body;

(db) impose conditions in a licence enabling OFCOM to require the licence holder to provide them with such information as they may reasonably require for determining—

(i) whether the licence holder is a disqualified person in relation to that licence by virtue of Part 2 of Schedule 2 to the 1990 Act; or

(ii) whether any such requirements as are mentioned in subsection (1)(b) have been and are being complied with by or in relation to the licence holder;]

(e) impose conditions in any licence enabling them to give the licence holder directions requiring him to take, or arrange for the taking of, any specified steps appearing to them to be required to be taken in order for any such requirements as are mentioned in subsection (1)(b) to be complied with.

(3) Where [F23 OFCOM] —

(a) revoke the award of any licence in pursuance of subsection (2)(b), or

(b) determine that any condition imposed by them in relation to any licence in pursuance of subsection (2)(c) has not been satisfied,

any provisions of this Part relating to the awarding of licences of the kind in question shall (subject to subsection (4)) have effect as if the person to whom the licence was awarded or granted had not made an application for it.

(4) Those provisions shall not so have effect if [F23 OFCOM] decide that it would be desirable to publish a fresh notice under this Part in respect of the grant of a licence, or (as the case may be) a further licence, to provide the service in question.

(5) Every licence shall include such conditions as [F23 OFCOM] consider necessary or expedient to ensure that where—

(a) the holder of the licence is a body, and

(b) a relevant change takes place after the grant of the licence,

[F23 OFCOM] may revoke the licence by notice served on the holder of the licence and taking effect forthwith or on a date specified in the notice.

(6) [F23 OFCOM] shall not serve any such notice on the licence holder unless—

(a) they have notified him of the matters [F26 constituting their grounds for revoking the licence] and given him a reasonable opportunity of making representations to them about those matters, and

(b) in a case where the relevant change is one falling within subsection (7)—

(i) they have also given him an opportunity of complying with [F27 the requirements imposed by or under Schedule 14 to the Communications Act 2003] within a period specified in the notification, and

(ii) the period specified in the notification has elapsed.

(7) A relevant change falls within this subsection if it consists only in one or more of the following—

F28 (a) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(b) a change in the national market share (within the meaning of [F29 Part 1 of Schedule 14 to the Communications Act 2003] ) of one or more national newspapers (within the meaning of that Part of that Schedule), or

(c) a change in the local market share (within the meaning of [F30 section 5 of the Broadcasting Act 1990] ) in a particular area of one or more local newspapers (within the meaning of [F31 Part 1 of Schedule 14 to the Communications Act 2003] ).

(8) In this section “relevant change”, in relation to a body to which a licence has been awarded or granted, means—

(a) any change affecting the nature or characteristics of the body,

(b) any change in the persons having control over or interests in the body, or

(c) any other change giving rise to [F32 a disqualification under Part 2 of Schedule 2 to the 1990 Act or a contravention of a requirement imposed by or under Schedule 14 to the Communications Act 2003,]

being (in any case) a change which is such that, if it fell to [F23 OFCOM] to determine whether to award the licence to the body in the new circumstances of the case, they would be induced by the change to refrain from so awarding it.

Textual Amendments

F23 Words in s. 5 substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 78(2) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F24 S. 5(1)(b)(c) substituted for s. 5(1)(b) (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), ss. 350(2), 411(2) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F25 S. 5(2)(da)(db) inserted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 78(3) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F26 Words in s. 5(6)(a) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 78(4)(a) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F27 Words in s. 5(6)(b)(i) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 78(4)(b) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F28 S. 5(7)(a) repealed (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 78(5)(a), Sch. 19(1) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F29 Words in s. 5(7)(b) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 78(5)(b) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F30 Words in s. 5(7)(c) substituted (15.6.2011) by The Media Ownership (Radio and Cross-media) Order 2011 (S.I. 2011/1503), arts. 1, 14(a)

F31 Words in s. 5(7)(c) substituted (15.6.2011) by The Media Ownership (Radio and Cross-media) Order 2011 (S.I. 2011/1503), arts. 1, 14(b)

F32 Words in s. 5(8) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 78(6) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C7 S. 5 modified (temp.) (17.7.2003) by The Communications Act 2003 (Commencement No. 1) Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/1900), art. 5

Multiplex services U.K.

F33 6 Assignment of frequencies by Secretary of State. U.K.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

F33 S. 6 repealed (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 19(1) Note 1 (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

7 Multiplex licences. U.K.

(1) Where [F34 OFCOM] propose to grant a licence to provide a multiplex service (in this Part referred to as a “multiplex licence”) they shall publish, in such manner as they consider appropriate, a notice—

(a) stating that they propose to grant such a licence,

(b) specifying the frequency or frequencies on which the service is to be provided,

(c) specifying, in such manner as [F34 OFCOM] consider appropriate, the area or areas in the United Kingdom within which the frequency or frequencies is or are to be available,

(d) inviting applications for the licence and specifying the closing date for such applications,

(e) specifying the fee payable on any application, and

(f) stating whether any percentage of multiplex revenue for each accounting period would be payable by an applicant in pursuance of section 13 if he were granted the licence and, if so, specifying that percentage.

(2) Unless an order under section 13(2) is in force—

(a) the consent of the Secretary of State shall be required for so much of the notice as relates to the matters specified in subsection (1)(f), and

(b) [F34 OFCOM] may if they think fit (with that consent) specify under subsection (1)(f)—

(i) different percentages in relation to different accounting periods falling within the period for which the licence would be in force, and

(ii) a nil percentage in relation to any accounting period so falling.

(3) When publishing a notice under subsection (1), [F34 OFCOM] —

(a) shall publish with the notice general guidance as to requirements to be met by proposals as to the matters referred to in subsection (4)(b)(i) and (ii) and (f), and

(b) may publish with the notice such other general guidance as they consider appropriate.

(4) An application made in pursuance of a notice under subsection (1) must be in writing and accompanied by—

(a) the fee specified in the notice under subsection (1)(e),

(b) a technical plan relating to the service which the applicant proposes to provide and indicating—

(i) the parts of the area specified under subsection (1)(c) which would be within the coverage area of the service,

(ii) the timetable in accordance with which that coverage would be achieved, and

(iii) the technical means by which it would be achieved,

(c) the applicant’s proposals as to the number of digital programme services to be broadcast, as to the characteristics of each of those services and as to the areas in which they would be provided,

[F35 (ca) the applicant’s proposals as to the number (if any) of digital sound programmes services which are to be broadcast, as to the characteristics of each of those services and as to the areas in which they would be provided;]

(d) the applicant’s proposals as to the timetable in accordance with which the broadcasting of each of [F36 the services mentioned in paragraphs (c) and (ca)] would begin,

(e) the applicant’s proposals as to the broadcasting of digital additional services,

(f) the applicant’s proposals for promoting or assisting the acquisition, by persons in the proposed coverage area of the service, of equipment capable of receiving all the multiplex services available in that area,

(g) such information as [F34 OFCOM] may reasonably require as to the applicant’s present financial position and his projected financial position during the period for which the licence would be in force, and

(h) such other information as [F34 OFCOM] may reasonably require for the purpose of considering the application.

(5) In subsection (4)(f) “acquisition” includes acquisition on hire or loan.

(6) At any time after receiving such an application and before determining it, [F34 OFCOM] may require the applicant to furnish additional information under any of paragraphs (b) to (h) of subsection (4).

(7) Any information to be furnished to [F34 OFCOM] under this section shall, if they so require, be in such form or verified in such manner as they may specify.

(8) [F34 OFCOM] shall, as soon as reasonably practicable after the date specified in a notice under subsection (1) as the closing date for applications, publish in such manner as they consider appropriate—

(a) the following matters, namely—

(i) the name of every person who has made an application to them in pursuance of the notice,

(ii) the proposals submitted by him under subsection (4)(c), and

(iii) such other information connected with his application as [F34 OFCOM] consider appropriate; and

(b) a notice—

(i) inviting representations to be made to them with respect to any of the applications, and

(ii) specifying the manner in which, and the time by which, any such representations are to be so made.

Textual Amendments

F34 Words in s. 7 substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 79(2) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F35 S. 7(4)(ca) inserted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 79(3)(a) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F36 Words in s. 7(4)(d) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 79(3)(b) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C8 S. 7(1)(f) restricted (temp. from 20.11.1996 to 29.9.2002) in relation to any notice published by the Commission by S.I. 1996/2759, arts. 2, 3

8 Award of multiplex licences. U.K.

(1) Where [F37 OFCOM] have published a notice under section 7(1), they shall in determining whether, or to whom, to award the multiplex licence in question, have regard to the extent to which, taking into account the matters specified in subsection (2) and any representations made to them in pursuance of section 7(8)(b) with respect to those matters, the award of the licence to each applicant would be calculated to promote the development of digital television broadcasting in the United Kingdom otherwise than by satellite.

(2) The matters referred to in subsection (1) are—

(a) the extent of the coverage area proposed to be achieved by the applicant as indicated in the technical plan submitted by him under section 7(4)(b),

(b) the timetables proposed by the applicant under section 7(4)(b)(ii) and (d),

(c) the ability of the applicant to establish the proposed service and to maintain it throughout the period for which the licence will be in force,

(d) the capacity of the digital programme services proposed to be included in the service to appeal to a variety of tastes and interests,

(e) any proposals by the applicant for promoting or assisting the acquisition, by persons in the proposed coverage area of the service, of equipment capable of receiving all the multiplex services available in that area, and

(f) whether, in contracting or offering to contract with persons providing digital programme services [F38 , digital sound programme service] or digital additional services, the applicant has acted in a manner calculated to ensure fair and effective competition in the provision of such services.

(3) In subsection (2)(e) “acquisition” includes acquisition on hire or loan.

(4) Where [F37 OFCOM] have awarded a multiplex licence to any person in accordance with this section, they shall, as soon as reasonably practicable after awarding the licence—

(a) publish in such manner as they consider appropriate—

(i) the name of the person to whom the licence has been awarded, and

(ii) such other information as [F37 OFCOM] consider appropriate, and

(b) grant the licence to that person.

Textual Amendments

F37 Words in s. 8 substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 80(2) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F38 Words in s. 8(2)(f) inserted (29.12.2003) by virtue of Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 80(3) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

9 Power to require two or more multiplex licences to be granted to one person. U.K.

(1) [F39 OFCOM] may, before publishing a notice under section 7(1), determine that two or more multiplex licences are on that occasion to be granted to one person.

(2) Where [F39 OFCOM] have so determined, they shall publish a single notice under section 7(1) in relation to the licences.

(3) In relation to any application made in pursuance of such a notice—

(a) references in section 7(4) to the proposed service shall have effect as references to each of the proposed services,

(b) the reference in section 8(1) to the multiplex licence shall have effect as a reference to all the licences concerned,

(c) in section 8(2), the reference in paragraph (d) to the proposed service shall have effect as a reference to all the proposed services considered together, and other references to the proposed service shall have effect as references either to each of the proposed services or to all of them considered together, as [F39 OFCOM] consider appropriate.

(4) Nothing in this section applies in relation to the renewal of a multiplex licence.

Textual Amendments

F39 Words in s. 9 substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 81 (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

10 Award of multiplex licence subject to conditions. U.K.

(1) [F40 OFCOM] may, when awarding a multiplex licence to any person, make the grant of the licence to him conditional on his compliance before the grant with such specified requirements relating to the financing of the service as appear to them to be appropriate, having regard to—

(a) any duties which are or may be imposed on them, or on the licence holder, by or under [F41 this Act, the 1990 Act or Part 3 of the Communications Act 2003] , and

(b) any information provided to them under section 7(4)(g) by the person to whom the licence is awarded as to his projected financial position during the period for which the licence would be in force.

(2) Where [F40 OFCOM] determine that any condition imposed by them in relation to a multiplex licence in pursuance of subsection (1) has not been satisfied, section 8 shall (subject to subsection (3)) have effect as if the person to whom the licence was awarded had not made an application for it.

(3) Section 8 shall not so have effect if [F40 OFCOM] decide that it would be desirable to publish a fresh notice under section 7(1) in respect of the grant of the licence.

Textual Amendments

F40 Words in s. 10 substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 82(2) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F41 Words in s. 10(1)(a) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 82(3) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

11 Failure to begin providing licensed service and financial penalties on revocation of licence. U.K.

(1) Subject to subsection (2), subsection (3) applies where at any time after a multiplex licence has been granted to any person but before the licence has come into force—

(a) that person indicates to [F42 OFCOM] that he does not intend to provide the service in question, or

(b) [F42 OFCOM] for any other reason have reasonable grounds for believing that that person will not provide that service once the licence has come into force.

(2) Subsection (3) shall not apply in the case of any person by virtue of paragraph (b) of subsection (1) unless [F42 OFCOM] have served on him a notice stating their grounds for believing that he will not provide the service in question once his licence has come into force; and they shall not serve such a notice on him unless they have given him a reasonable opportunity of making representations to them about the matters complained of.

(3) Where this subsection applies—

(a) [F42 OFCOM] shall serve on the person to whom the licence has been granted a notice revoking the licence as from the time the notice is served on him, and

(b) section 8 shall (subject to subsection (4)) have effect as if he had not made an application for the licence.

(4) Section 8 shall not have effect as mentioned in subsection (3) if the Commission decide that it would be desirable to publish a fresh notice under section 7(1) in respect of the grant of the licence.

(5) Where [F42 OFCOM] revoke a multiplex licence under this section or under any other provision of this Part, they shall serve on the licence holder a notice requiring him to pay to them, within a specified period, a specified financial penalty F43 ...

[F44 (5A) The maximum amount which a person may be required to pay by way of a penalty under subsection (5) is the maximum penalty given by subsections (5B) and (5C).

(5B) In a case where the licence is revoked under this section or the penalty is imposed before the end of the first complete accounting period of the licence holder to fall within the period for which the licence is in force, the maximum penalty is whichever is the greater of—

(a) £500,000; and

(b) 7 per cent. of the amount which OFCOM estimate would have been the multiplex revenue for the first complete accounting period of the licence holder falling within the period for which the licence would have been in force.

(5C) In any other case, the maximum penalty is whichever is the greater of—

(a) £500,000; and

(b) 7 per cent. of the multiplex revenue for the last complete accounting period of the licence holder falling within the period for which the licence is in force.

(5D) Section 14 applies for estimating or determining multiplex revenue for the purposes of subsection (5B) or (5C) above.]

(7) Any financial penalty payable by any body by virtue of subsection (5) shall, in addition to being recoverable from that body as provided by section 38(4), be recoverable by [F42 OFCOM] as a debt due to them from any person who controls that body.

Textual Amendments

F42 Words in s. 11 substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 83 (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F43 Words in s. 11(5) repealed (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 13 para. 11(1)(3), Sch. 19(1) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F44 S. 11(5A)-(5D) substituted for s. 11(6) (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 13 para. 11(2)(3) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C9 S. 11 applied (with modifications)(20.11.1996) by S.I. 1996/2760, art. 5(1)(2)(4)

12 Conditions attached to multiplex licence. U.K.

(1) A multiplex licence shall include such conditions as appear to [F45 OFCOM] to be appropriate for securing—

(a) that the licensed service is established by the licence holder in accordance with the timetable and other proposals indicated in the technical plan submitted under section 7(4)(b),

(b) the implementation of any proposals submitted by the licence holder under section 7(4)(c), (d), (e) or (f),

(c) that all digital programme services broadcast under the licence are provided by the holder of a licence under section 18 [F46 , by the BBC] [F47 or by [F48 a CTT broadcaster or are exempt Irish services]],

(d) that all digital additional services broadcast under the licence are provided by the holder of a licence under section 25 [F49 , by the BBC] [F50 or by [F51 a CTT broadcaster or are exempt Irish services]],

[F52 (da) that the only digital sound programme services broadcast under the licence are services provided by the holder of a national digital sound programme licence (within the meaning of section 60) or by the BBC;]

(e) that in the terms on which the licence holder contracts, or offers to contract, for the broadcasting of digital programme services [F53 , digital sound programme services] or digital additional services, he does not show undue discrimination either against or in favour of a particular person providing such a service or a class of such persons,

(f) that the licence holder does not, in any agreement with a person providing a digital programme service [F54 , a digital sound programme service] or digital additional services which entitles that person to use a specified amount of digital capacity on the frequency or frequencies to which the licence relates, restrict that person’s freedom to make arrangements with some other person as to the use of any of that digital capacity (except to the extent that the restriction is reasonably required for the purpose of ensuring the technical quality of the broadcasts or for the purpose of securing compliance with any other condition of the licence),

(g) that the signals carrying the multiplex service attain high standards in terms of technical quality and reliability throughout so much of the area for which the service is provided as is for the time being reasonably practicable, and

[F55 (h) that, while the licence is in force, at least the required percentage of the digital capacity on the frequency or frequencies on which the service is broadcast is used, or left available to be used, for the broadcasting of services falling within subsection (1A).]

[F56 (1A) The services falling within this subsection are—

(a) qualifying services;

(b) digital programme services licensed under this Part or provided by the BBC;

(c) digital sound programme services provided by the BBC;

(d) programme-related services; and

(e) relevant technical services.]

(2) Any conditions imposed in pursuance of subsection (1)(a) or (b) may be varied by [F45 OFCOM] with the consent of the licence holder (and section 3(4)(b) shall accordingly not apply to any such variation).

(3) Where the licence holder applies to [F45 OFCOM] for the variation of any condition imposed in pursuance of subsection (1)(b) and relating to the characteristics of any of the digital programme services [F57 or digital sound programme services] to be broadcast under the licence, [F45 OFCOM] shall vary the condition accordingly unless it appears to them that, if the application were granted, the capacity of the [F58 so much of what is broadcast under the licence as consists of digital programme services, or of such services together with digital sound programme services,] to appeal to a variety of tastes and interests would be unacceptably diminished.

[F59 (3A) In subsection (1)(c) and (d)—

• “CTT broadcaster” means a person who for the purposes of the European Convention on Transfrontier Television is within the jurisdiction of a CTT State other than the United Kingdom;

• “exempt Irish service” means a service specified in section 211B(1)(b) of the Communications Act 2003.]

(4) In subsection [F60 (1A)] —

F61 (a) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(b) “programme-related service” means any digital additional service consisting in the provision of services (apart from advertising) which—

(i) are ancillary to the programmes included in one or more television programme services (within the meaning of Part I of the 1990 Act) [F62 , or in one or more digital sound programme services provided by the BBC,] and are directly related to the contents of those programmes, or

(ii) relate to the promotion or listing of such programmes, and

(c) “relevant technical service” means any technical service which relates to one or more [F63 services falling within subsection (1A) which are comprised in the multiplex in question].

[F64 (4A) In subsection (1)(h), the reference to the required percentage is a reference to such percentage equal to or more than 90 per cent. as OFCOM—

(a) consider appropriate; and

(b) specify in the condition.]

(5) The Secretary of State may by order amend subsection [F65 (4A)] by substituting for the percentage for the time being specified there a different percentage specified in the order.

(6) No order under subsection (5) shall be made unless a draft of the order has been laid before and approved by a resolution of each House of Parliament.

F66 (7) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

F45 Word in s. 12 substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 84 (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F46 Words in s. 12(1)(c) inserted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), ss. 242(1)(a), 411(2) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F47 Words in s. 12(1)(c) inserted (30.12.1998) by S.I. 1998/3196, reg. 2, Sch. para. 9(2)

F48 Words in s. 12(1)(c) substituted (31.12.2020) by The Broadcasting (Amendment) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 (S.I. 2019/224), reg. 1(2), Sch. 1 para. 4(2)(a) (with reg. 6) (as amended by S.I. 2020/1536, reg. 5(2)(3)); 2020 c. 1, Sch. 5 para. 1(1)

F49 Words in s. 12(1)(d) inserted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), ss. 242(1)(b), 411(2) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F50 Words in s. 12(1)(d) inserted (30.12.1998) by S.I. 1998/3196, reg. 2, Sch. para. 9(3)

F51 Words in s. 12(1)(d) substituted (31.12.2020) by The Broadcasting (Amendment) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 (S.I. 2019/224), reg. 1(2), Sch. 1 para. 4(2)(b) (with reg. 6) (as amended by S.I. 2020/1536, reg. 5(2)(3)); 2020 c. 1, Sch. 5 para. 1(1)

F52 S. 12(1)(da) inserted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), ss. 242(1)(c), 411(2) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F53 Words in s. 12(1)(e) inserted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), ss. 242(1)(d), 411(2) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F54 Words in s. 12(1)(f) inserted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), ss. 242(1)(e), 411(2) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F55 S. 12(1)(h) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), ss. 242(1)(f), 411(2) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F56 S. 12(1A) inserted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), ss. 242(2), 411(2) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F57 Words in s. 12(3) inserted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), ss. 242(3)(a), 411(2) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F58 Words in s. 12(3) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), ss. 242(3)(b), 411(2) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F59 S. 12(3A) substituted (31.12.2020) by The Broadcasting (Amendment) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 (S.I. 2019/224), reg. 1(2), Sch. 1 para. 4(3) (with reg. 6) (as amended by S.I. 2020/1536, reg. 5(2)(3)); 2020 c. 1, Sch. 5 para. 1(1)

F60 Words in s. 12(4) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), ss. 242(4)(a), 411(2) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F61 S. 12(4)(a) omitted (23.8.2024) by virtue of Media Act 2024 (c. 15), s. 55(3)(a), Sch. 2 para. 8; S.I. 2024/858, reg. 2(1)(v)

F62 Words in s. 12(4)(b)(i) inserted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), ss. 242(4)(c), 411(2) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F63 Words in s. 12(4)(c) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), ss. 242(4)(d), 411(2) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F64 S. 12(4A) inserted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), ss. 242(5), 411(2) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F65 Word in s. 12(5) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), ss. 242(6), 411(2) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F66 S. 12(7) repealed (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 19(1) Note 1 (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C10 S. 12 applied (with modifications)(20.11.1996) by S.I. 1996/2760, art. 5(1)(3)(4)

C11 S. 12 applied (with modifications) (2.7.2008) by The Television Multiplex Services (Reservation of Digital Capacity) Order 2008 (S.I. 2008/1420), arts. 1, 11

13 Additional payments to be made in respect of multiplex licences. U.K.

(1) Where a multiplex licence is granted in pursuance of a notice under subsection (1) of section 7 which specified a percentage of multiplex revenue under paragraph (f) of that subsection, the licence shall include conditions requiring the licence holder to pay to [F67 OFCOM] (in addition to any fees required to be so paid by virtue of section 4(1)(b)) in respect of each accounting period of his falling within the period for which the licence is in force, an amount representing such percentage of the multiplex revenue for that accounting period (determined under section 14) as was specified in the notice.

(2) The Secretary of State may by order provide that, in relation to any notice under subsection (1) of section 7 published while the order is in force, no percentage shall be specified under paragraph (f) of that subsection.

(3) Any order under subsection (2) shall be subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of either House of Parliament.

(4) A multiplex licence may include conditions—

(a) enabling [F67 OFCOM] to estimate before the beginning of an accounting period the amount due for that period by virtue of subsection (1), and

(b) requiring the licence holder to pay the estimated amount by monthly instalments throughout that period.

(5) Such a licence may in particular include conditions—

(a) authorising [F67 OFCOM] to revise any estimate on one or more occasions, and to adjust the instalments payable by the licence holder to take account of the revised estimate;

(b) providing for the adjustment of any overpayment or underpayment.

(6) Where—

(a) the first complete accounting period of the licence holder falling within the period for which the licence is in force (“the licence period”) does not begin at the same time as that period, or

(b) the last complete accounting period of his falling within the licence period does not end at the same time as that period,

any reference in subsection (1) to an accounting period of his shall include a reference to such part of the accounting period preceding that first complete accounting period, or (as the case may be) following that last complete accounting period, as falls within the licence period; and other references to accounting periods in this Part shall be construed accordingly.

Textual Amendments

F67 Words in s. 13 substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 85 (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C12 S. 13(1) applied (with modifications)(20.11.1996) by S.I. 1996/2760, art. 5(1)(4)(5)

C13 S. 13(2)(3) excluded (20.11.1996) by S.I. 1996/2760, art. 5(6)

C14 S. 13(4)-(6) applied (prosp.) by 1990 c. 42, s. 26(9A) (as inserted by 1996 c. 55, s. 82(3) (with s. 43(1)(6))

14 Multiplex revenue. U.K.

(1) For the purposes of [F68 this Part] the multiplex revenue for each accounting period of [F69 the person who is the multiplex provider in relation to any television multiplex service or any general multiplex service] shall consist of—

(a) all payments received or to be received by him or any person connected with him from a person other than a programme provider or an additional services provider—

(i) in consideration of the inclusion in that period, in any digital programme service or digital additional service broadcast by means of [F70 the relevant multiplex] , of advertisements or other programmes, or

(ii) in respect of charges made in that period for the reception of programmes included in any such digital programme service or digital additional service,

(b) all payments received or to be received by him or any person connected with him in respect of the broadcasting of [F71 by means of the multiplex service of any service which is a qualifying service or which (without being a qualifying service) is provided by the BBC] ,

(c) all payments received or to be received by any programme provider or any person connected with him from a person other than [F72 the multiplex provider] , an additional services provider or another programme provider—

(i) in consideration of the inclusion in that period, in any digital programme service provided by him for broadcasting by means of [F72 the relevant multiplex] , of advertisements or other programmes, or

(ii) in respect of charges made in that period for the reception of programmes included in any such digital programme service, and

(d) all payments received or to be received by any additional services provider or any person connected with him from a person other than [F72 the multiplex provider] , a programme provider or another additional services provider—

(i) in consideration of the inclusion in that period, in any digital additional service provided by him for broadcasting by means of [F72 the relevant multiplex] , of advertisements or other programmes, or

(ii) in respect of charges made in that period for the reception of programmes included in any such digital additional service.

(2) If, in connection with the inclusion of any advertisements or other programmes whose inclusion is paid for by payments falling within subsection (1)(a)(i), any payments are made to [F73 the multiplex provider] or any connected person to meet any payments payable by [F73 the multiplex provider] by virtue of section 13(1), those payments shall be regarded as made in consideration of the inclusion of the programmes in question.

(3) In the case of an advertisement included as mentioned in subsection (1)(a)(i), (c)(i) or (d)(i) under arrangements made between—

(a) [F73 the multiplex provider] , a programme provider or an additional services provider or any person connected with any of them, and

(b) a person acting as an advertising agent,

the amount of any receipt by [F73 the multiplex provider] , programme provider or additional services provider or any connected person that represents a payment by the advertiser from which the advertising agent has deducted any amount by way of commission shall, except in a case falling within subsection (4), be the amount of the payment by the advertiser after the deduction of the commission.

(4) If the amount deducted by way of commission as mentioned in subsection (3) exceeds 15 per cent. of the payment by the advertiser, the amount of the receipt in question shall be taken to be the amount of the payment less 15 per cent.

(5) If, in any accounting period of [F73 the multiplex provider] , a programme provider or an additional services provider or a person connected with any of them derives, in relation to any programme to be included in the relevant service, any financial benefit (whether direct or indirect) from payments made by any person other than [F73 the multiplex provider] , by way of sponsorship, for the purpose of defraying or contributing towards costs incurred or to be incurred in connection with that programme, the relevant payments shall be taken to include the amount of the financial benefit so derived by [F73 the multiplex provider] or the connected person, as the case may be.

(6) In subsection (5)—

(a) “the relevant service” means—

(i) in relation to a programme provider or a person connected with him, any digital programme service provided as mentioned in subsection (1)(c)(i), and

(ii) in relation to an additional services provider or a person connected with him, any digital additional service provided as mentioned in subsection (1)(d)(i), and

(b) “relevant payments” means—

(i) in relation to a programme provider, the payments referred to in subsection (1)(c), and

(ii) in relation to an additional services provider, the payments referred to in subsection (1)(d).

(7) Where, in any accounting period of [F73 the multiplex provider] —

(a) [F73 the multiplex provider] provides a digital programme service or digital additional service for broadcasting by means of the multiplex service,

(b) [F73 the multiplex provider] is engaged in any activity which, if engaged in by another person, would result in payments falling within subsection (1)(a) being made to [F73 the multiplex provider] ,

(c) a programme provider is engaged in any activity which, if engaged in by another person, would result in payments falling within subsection (1)(c) being made to the programme provider, or

(d) an additional services provider is engaged in any activity which, if engaged in by another person, would result in payments falling within subsection (1)(d) being made to the additional services provider,

[F74 OFCOM] may, if they consider that the amount which would (apart from this subsection) be the multiplex revenue for that accounting period is less than it would have been if the digital programme service or digital additional service had been provided, or the activity engaged in, by another person at arm’s length, treat the multiplex revenue as increased by the amount of the difference.

(8) Where, in any accounting period of the holder of the multiplex licence, [F73 the multiplex provider] or a programme provider or additional services provider receives payments falling within subsection (1)(a), (b), (c) or (d) from a person connected with him and it appears to [F74 OFCOM] that the amount which (apart from this subsection) would be the multiplex revenue for that accounting period is less than it would have been if the arrangements between him and the connected person were such as might be expected between parties at arm’s length, [F74 OFCOM] may treat the multiplex revenue as increased by the amount of the difference.

(9) In this section—

• “additional services provider”, in relation to [F75 a television multiplex service or a general multiplex service] , means any person who provides any digital additional service for broadcasting by means of [F76 that multiplex service] ;

• “ [F77 multiplex provider”— ”

  in relation to a television multiplex service for which a person holds a licence under this Part, means the licence holder; and

  in relation to a television multiplex service which is not licensed under this Part or a general multiplex service, means the person who provides that service;]

• “programme provider”, in relation to [F75 a television multiplex service or a general multiplex service] , means any person who provides a digital programme service for broadcasting by means of [F76 that multiplex service] .

• “ [F78 the relevant multiplex - ”

  in relation to a multiplex provider falling within paragraph (a) of the definition of that expression, means the television multiplex service to which his licence relates; and

  in relation to any other multiplex provider, means the television multiplex service or general multiplex service which is provided by him;

  and this section and section 15 shall have effect as if references in this section to digital programme services included references to digital sound programme services and references to digital additional services included references to digital additional services within the meaning of Part 2.]

Textual Amendments

F68 Words in s. 14(1) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 86(2)(a) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F69 Words in s. 14(1) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 86(2)(b) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F70 Words in s. 14(1)(a) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 86(2)(c) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F71 Words in s. 14(1)(b) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 86(2)(d) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F72 Words in s. 14(1)(c)(d) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 86(2)(e) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F73 Words in s. 14(2)-(8) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 86(3)(a) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F74 Words in s. 14(2)-(8) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 86(3)(b) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F75 Words in s. 14(9) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 86(4)(a) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F76 Words in s. 14(9) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 86(4)(b) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F77 Words in s. 14(9) inserted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 86(4)(c) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F78 Words in s. 14(9) inserted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 86(4)(d) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

15 Attribution of multiplex revenue to licence holder and others. U.K.

(1) For the purposes of section [F79 17(2A) and (2B)] , the share of multiplex revenue attributable to [F80 the person who is the multiplex provider in relation to any television multiplex service] in respect of any accounting period of his shall be—

(a) the aggregate of—

(i) payments falling within paragraphs (a) or (b) of section 14(1), and

(ii) payments received or to be received by him from programme providers and additional services providers in respect of the provision [F81 in that period of television multiplex services,]

less

(b) the amount of any payments made or to be made to programme providers or additional service providers which would fall within paragraph (c) or (d) of section 14(1) but for the fact that they are received from [F82 the multiplex provider] .

(2) For the purposes of [F83 sections 23(2A) to (5) and 27(2A) to (5)] , the share of multiplex revenue attributable to a programme provider or additional services provider in relation to [F84 a television multiplex service or a general multiplex service] in respect of any accounting period of [F85 the multiplex provider] shall be—

(a) the aggregate of—

(i) payments falling within paragraph (c) or (d) of section 14(1), and

(ii) payments received or to be received from the holder of the multiplex licence which would fall within one of those paragraphs but for the fact that they are received from the holder of the multiplex licence,

less

(b) the amount of any payments made or to be made to the holder of the multiplex licence in respect of the provision of multiplex services in that period.

(3) In a case falling within subsection (7) or (8) of section 14, [F86 OFCOM] may treat the share of multiplex revenue attributable to any person for the accounting period of [F87 the multiplex provider] as increased by such amount as they consider appropriate to take account of the circumstances mentioned in that subsection.

(4) In this section “additional services provider” [F88 , ‘multiplex provider’] and “programme provider”, in relation to [F89 a television multiplex service or a general multiplex service] , have the same meaning as in section 14.

Textual Amendments

F79 Words in s. 15(1) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 13 para. 12(1)(3) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F80 Words in s. 15(1) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 87(2)(a) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F81 Words in s. 15(1) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 87(2)(b) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F82 Words in s. 15(1) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 87(2)(c) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F83 Words in s. 15(2) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 13 para. 12(2)(3) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F84 Words in s. 15(2) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 87(3)(a) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F85 Words in s. 15(2) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 87(3)(b) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F86 Words in s. 15(3) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 87(4)(a) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F87 Words in s. 15(3) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 87(4)(b) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F88 Words in s. 15(4) inserted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 87(5)(a) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F89 Words in s. 15(4) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 87(5)(b) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

16 Duration and renewal of multiplex licences. U.K.

(1) A multiplex licence shall (subject to the provisions of this Part and to section 42 of the 1990 Act as applied by section 17(6)) continue in force for a period of twelve years.

(2) A multiplex licence granted within six years of the commencement of this section may be renewed on one occasion in accordance with this section for a period of twelve years beginning with the date on which it would otherwise expire.

(3) An application for the renewal of a multiplex licence under subsection (2) may be made by the licence holder not earlier than four years before the date on which it would otherwise cease to be in force and not later than [F90 the day falling three months before] the relevant date.

(4) At any time before determining the application, [F91 OFCOM] may—

(a) require the applicant to furnish—

(i) a technical plan which supplements that submitted by the licence holder under section 7(4)(b), and

(ii) proposals which supplement any proposals submitted by the licence holder under section 7(4)(f), and

(b) notify the applicant of requirements which must be met by that supplementary technical plan or those supplementary proposals and relate to the matters referred to in section 7(4)(b)(i) and (ii) and (f).

(5) The consent of the Secretary of State shall be required for any exercise by [F91 OFCOM] of their powers under subsection (4) and for any decision by [F91 OFCOM] not to exercise those powers; and in deciding whether to give his consent the Secretary of State shall have regard to any report made to him under subsection (1)(b) of section 33 and to any representations received by him on consultation under subsection (4) of that section.

(6) F92 ... before the relevant date, [F91 OFCOM] may postpone consideration of it by them for as long as they think appropriate having regard to subsection (10).

(7) Where an application for the renewal of a multiplex licence has been duly made to [F91 OFCOM] they may refuse the application only if—

(a) it appears to them that the applicant has failed to comply with any of the conditions included in his licence,

(b) any supplementary technical plan or supplementary proposals submitted under subsection (4)(a) fail to meet requirements notified to the applicant under subsection (4)(b), or

(c) they are not satisfied that the applicant would, if his licence were renewed, provide a service which complied with the conditions to be included in the licence as renewed.

(8) Subject to subsection (9), on the grant of any such application [F91 OFCOM] may with the consent of the Secretary of State, and shall if so required by him—

(a) specify a percentage different from that specified under section 7(1)(f) as the percentage of multiplex revenue for each accounting period of his that will be payable by the applicant in pursuance of section 13(1) during the period for which the licence is to be renewed, or

(b) specify such a percentage where none was specified under section 7(1)(f);

and [F91 OFCOM] may specify under paragraph (a) or (b) either of the things mentioned in section 7(2)(b).

(9) Where an order under section 13(2) is in force on the relevant date, no percentage of multiplex revenue shall be payable as mentioned in subsection (8)(a) during the period for which the licence is to be renewed.

(10) Where [F91 OFCOM] have granted a person’s application under this section, they shall formally renew his licence from the date on which it would otherwise expire; and they shall not so renew his licence unless they have notified him of any percentage specified by them under subsection (8) and he has, within such period as is specified in that notification, notified them that he consents to the licence being renewed on those terms.

(11) Where a multiplex licence has been renewed under this section, the licence as renewed shall include such further conditions as appear to [F91 OFCOM] to be appropriate for securing the implementation of any supplementary technical plan and supplementary proposals submitted under subsection (4)(a).

(12) In this section “the relevant date”, in relation to a multiplex licence, means the date which [F91 OFCOM] determine to be that by which they would need to publish a notice under section 7(1) if they were to grant, as from the date on which that licence would expire if not renewed, a fresh licence to provide the service formerly provided under that licence.

[F93 (12A) A determination for the purposes of subsection (12)—

(a) must be made at least one year before the date determined; and

(b) must be notified by OFCOM to the person who holds the licence in question.]

(13) Nothing in this section prevents the holder of a multiplex licence from applying for a new licence on one or more occasions in pursuance of a notice under section 7(1).

Textual Amendments

F90 Words in s. 16(3) inserted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 88(3) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F91 Words in s. 16 substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 88(2) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F92 Words in s. 16(6) repealed (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 19(1) Note 1 (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F93 S. 16(12A) inserted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 88(4) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C15 S. 16 applied (with modifications)(20.11.1996) by S.I. 1996/2760, art. 5(1)(4)(7)

C16 S. 16(3) modified (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 18 para. 50(3)-(6) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

17 Enforcement of multiplex licences. U.K.

(1) If [F94 OFCOM] are satisfied that the holder of a multiplex licence has failed to comply with any condition of the licence or with any direction given by [F94 OFCOM] under or by virtue of any provision of this Part, they may (subject to the following provisions of this section) serve on him—

(a) a notice requiring him to pay, within a specified period, a specified financial penalty to [F94 OFCOM] , or

(b) a notice reducing the period for which the licence is to be in force by a specified period not exceeding two years.

(2) The amount of any financial penalty imposed on any person in pursuance of subsection (1)(a) shall not exceed [F95 the maximum penalty given by subsection (2A).]

[F96 (2A) The maximum penalty is whichever is the greater of—

(a) £250,000; and

(b) 5 per cent. of the share of multiplex revenue attributable to the licence holder for his last complete accounting period falling within the period for which his licence has been in force (“the relevant period”).

(2B) In relation to a person whose first complete accounting period falling within the relevant period has not ended when the penalty is imposed, subsection (2A)(b) is to be construed as referring to 5 per cent. of the amount which OFCOM estimate to be the share of multiplex revenue attributable to him for that accounting period.

(2C) Section 15(1) and (3) applies for determining or estimating the share of multiplex revenue attributable to a person for the purposes of subsection (2A) or (2B) above.]

(4) [F94 OFCOM] shall not serve on any person such a notice as is mentioned in subsection (1)(a) or (b) unless they have given him a reasonable opportunity of making representations to them about the matters complained of.

(5) Where a licence is due to expire on a particular date by virtue of a notice served on any person under subsection (1)(b), [F94 OFCOM] may, on the application of that person, revoke that notice by a further notice served on him at any time before that date, if they are satisfied that, since the date of the earlier notice, his conduct in relation to the operation of the licensed service has been such as to justify the revocation of that notice.

(6) Section 42 of the 1990 Act (power to revoke Channel 3 or 5 licence) shall have effect in relation to a multiplex licence as it has effect in relation to a Channel 3 licence, but as if the reference in subsection (1)(a) of that section to Part I of the 1990 Act were a reference to this Part.

Textual Amendments

F94 Words in s. 17 substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 89 (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F95 Words in s. 17(2) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 13 para. 13(1)(3) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F96 S. 17(2A)-(2C) substituted for s. 17(3) (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 13 para. 13(2)(3) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C17 S. 17(1) modified (20.7.2004) by The Contracting Out (Functions relating to Broadcast Advertising) and Specification of Relevant Functions Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1975), art. 1, Sch. para. 4(a) (with art. 5)

Digital programme services U.K.

18 Licensing of digital programme services. U.K.

(1) An application for a licence to provide digital programme services (in this Part referred to as a “digital programme licence”) shall—

(a) be made in such manner as [F97 OFCOM] may determine, and

(b) be accompanied by such fee (if any) as they may determine.

(2) At any time after receiving such an application and before determining it, [F97 OFCOM] may require the applicant to furnish such additional information as they may consider necessary for the purpose of considering the application.

(3) Any information to be furnished to [F97 OFCOM] under this section shall, if they so require, be in such form or verified in such manner as they may specify.

(4) Where an application for a digital programme licence is made to [F97 OFCOM] in accordance with the provisions of this section, they shall grant the licence unless precluded from doing so by section 3(3)(a) or 5(1).

F98 (5) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F98 (6) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

F97 Words in s. 18(1)-(4) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 90(2) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F98 S. 18(5)(6) repealed (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 90(3), Sch. 19(1) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C18 S. 18 modified (2.7.2008) by The Television Multiplex Services (Reservation of Digital Capacity) Order 2008 (S.I. 2008/1420), arts. 1, 6

19 Duration and conditions of digital programme licence. U.K.

(1) Subject to the provisions of this Part and to section 42 of the 1990 Act as applied by section 23(8), a digital programme licence shall continue in force until it is surrendered by its holder.

F99 (2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(3) A digital programme licence shall also include such conditions as appear to [F100 OFCOM] to be appropriate for requiring the holder of the licence—

(a) on entering into any agreement with [F101 the provider of a television multiplex service or general multiplex service] for the provision of a digital programme service to be broadcast [F102 by means of that provider’s service] , to notify [F100 OFCOM] —

(i) of [F103 the identity of the service by means of which it will be broadcast] ,

(ii) of the characteristics of the digital programme service to which the agreement relates,

(iii) of the period during which it will be provided, and

(iv) where under the agreement the holder of the digital programme licence will be entitled to the use of a specified amount of digital capacity, of that amount,

(b) when any such agreement is varied so far as it relates to any of the matters mentioned in paragraph (a)(i), (ii), (iii) or (iv), to notify [F100 OFCOM] of the variation so far as relating to those matters, and

(c) where he is providing a digital programme service to [F104 the provider of a television multiplex service or general multiplex service] in accordance with such an agreement as is mentioned in paragraph (a) but intends to cease doing so, to notify [F100 OFCOM] of that fact.

F105 (4) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F105 (5) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F105 (6) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F105 (7) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F105 (8) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F105 (9) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F105 (10) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

F99 S. 19(2) repealed (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 91(3), Sch. 19(1) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F100 Words in s. 19(3) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 91(2)(a) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F101 Words in s. 19(3)(a) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 91(2)(b) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F102 Words in s. 19(3)(a) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 91(2)(c) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F103 Words in s. 19(3)(a)(i) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 91(2)(d) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F104 Words in s. 19(3)(c) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 91(2)(b) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F105 S. 19(4)-(10) repealed (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 91(3), Sch. 19(1) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C19 S. 19 modified (2.7.2008) by The Television Multiplex Services (Reservation of Digital Capacity) Order 2008 (S.I. 2008/1420), arts. 1, 7

F106 20 Code relating to provision for deaf and visually impaired. U.K.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

F106 Ss. 20-22 repealed (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 19(1) Note 1 (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F106 21 Powers of Secretary of State in relation to code under section 20. U.K.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

F106 Ss. 20-22 repealed (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 19(1) Note 1 (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F106 22 Compliance with code under section 20. U.K.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

F106 Ss. 20-22 repealed (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 19(1) Note 1 (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

23 Enforcement of digital programme licences. U.K.

(1) If [F107 OFCOM] are satisfied that the holder of a digital programme licence has failed to comply with any condition of the licence or with any direction given by [F107 OFCOM] under or by virtue of any provision of this Part, they may (subject to the following provisions of this section) serve on him—

(a) a notice requiring him to pay, within a specified period, a specified financial penalty to [F107 OFCOM] , or

(b) a notice providing that the licence is to expire on a specified date, which shall be at least one year from the date of service of the notice.

(2) The amount of any financial penalty imposed on any person in pursuance of subsection (1)(a) shall not exceed [F108 the maximum penalty given by subsection (2A).]

[F109 (2A) The maximum penalty is whichever is the greater of—

(a) £250,000; and

(b) 5 per cent. of the aggregate amount of the shares of multiplex revenue attributable to him in relation to television multiplex services and general multiplex services in respect of relevant accounting periods.]

(4) In [F110 subsection (2A)] “relevant accounting period”, in relation to a [F111 television multiplex service or general multiplex service, means the last accounting period of the multiplex provider] .

(5) Where, in the case of any [F112 television multiplex service or general multiplex service, the first accounting period of the multiplex provider] throughout which the holder of the digital programme licence provides a digital programme service for broadcasting by means of the multiplex service (“the first period”) has [F113 not ended when the penalty is imposed, then for the purposes of this section] the share of multiplex revenue attributable to the holder of the digital programme licence in relation to that multiplex service for the relevant accounting period shall be taken to be the amount which [F107 OFCOM] estimate to be the share of multiplex revenue attributable to him for the first period.

[F114 (5A) In subsections (4) and (5) “multiplex provider” has the same meaning as in section 14.]

[F115 (5B) Section 15(2) and (3) applies for determining or estimating the share of multiplex revenue attributable to a person for the purposes of subsection (2A) or (5) above.]

(6) [F107 OFCOM] shall not serve on any person such a notice as is mentioned in subsection (1)(a) or (b) unless they have given him a reasonable opportunity of making representations to them about the matters complained of.

(7) Where a licence is due to expire on a particular date by virtue of a notice served on any person under subsection (1)(b), [F107 OFCOM] may, on the application of that person, revoke that notice by a further notice served on him at any time before that date, if they are satisfied that, since the date of the earlier notice, his conduct in relation to the operation of the licensed service has been such as to justify the revocation of that notice.

(8) Subject to subsection (9), section 40(1) to (4) (power to direct licensee to broadcast correction or [F116 statement of findings] or not to repeat programme) and section 42 (power to revoke Channel 3 or 5 licence) of the 1990 Act shall apply in relation to a digital programme licence as they apply in relation to a Channel 3 licence.

(9) In its application in relation to a digital programme licence, section 42 of the 1990 Act shall have effect—

(a) with the substitution for the reference in subsection (1)(a) to Part I of that Act of a reference to this Part, and

(b) with the omission of subsection (4) and of the reference to that subsection in subsection (6).

(10) It is hereby declared that any exercise by [F107 OFCOM] of their powers under subsection (1) in respect of any failure to comply with any condition of a digital programme licence shall not preclude the exercise by them of their powers under section 40 of the 1990 Act in respect of that failure.

Textual Amendments

F107 Words in s. 23 substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 92(2) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F108 Words in s. 23(2) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 13 para. 14(1)(6) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F109 S. 23(2A) substituted for s. 23(3) (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 13 para. 14(2)(6) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F110 Words in s. 23(4) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 13 para. 14(3)(6) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F111 Words in s. 23(4) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 92(3) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F112 Words in s. 23(5) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 92(4) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F113 Words in s. 23(5) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 13 para. 14(4)(6) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F114 S. 23(5A) inserted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 92(5) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F115 S. 23(5B) inserted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 13 para. 14(5)(6) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F116 Words in s. 23(8) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 92(6) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C20 S. 23(1) modified (20.7.2004) by The Contracting Out (Functions relating to Broadcast Advertising) and Specification of Relevant Functions Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1975), art. 1, Sch. para. 4(b) (with art. 5)

Digital additional services provided on television broadcasting frequencies U.K.

24 Digital additional services. U.K.

(1) In this Part “digital additional service” means any service [F117 (or dissociable section of a service)] which—

[F118 (a) is provided by a person with a view to its being broadcast in digital form (whether by him or some other person) so as to be available for reception by members of the public;

(b) is so provided with a view either—

(i) to the broadcasting being by means of a television multiplex service or by means of a general multiplex service; or

(ii) to the members of the public in question being or including members of the public in [F119 a CTT State] other than the United Kingdom, or in an area of such a State;

and

(c) is not a Channel 3 service, Channel 4, Channel 5, a public television service of [F120 S4C], F121 ... a digital programme service, a digital sound programme service, an ancillary service or a technical service.]

(2) In this Part “ancillary service” means any service which is provided by the holder of a digital programme licence or by an [F122 a relevant public service broadcaster] and consists in the provision of—

[F123 (a) assistance for disabled people in relation to some or all of the programmes included in a digital programme service or qualifying service provided by him;

(b) a service (apart from advertising) that relates to the promotion or listing of programmes included in such a service or in a digital sound programme service so provided; or

(c) any other service (apart from advertising) that is ancillary to one or more programmes so included, and relates directly to their contents.]

(3) In this Part “technical service” means a service which—

(a) is provided for technical purposes connected with the encryption or decryption of one or more digital programme services [F124 , digital sound programme services] or digital additional services, and

(b) is of a description specified in an order made by the Secretary of State.

[F125 (3A) In this section—

“assistance for disabled people” has the same meaning as in Part 3 of the Communications Act 2003;

“available for reception by members of the public” shall be construed in accordance with section 361 of that Act;

“public television service of [F126 S4C]” means—

(a) S4C Digital; or

(b) any television programme service the provision of which by the Authority is authorised by or under section 205 of that Act and which is provided in digital form;

“relevant public service broadcaster” means any of the following—

(a) a person licensed under Part 1 of the 1990 Act to provide a Channel 3 service;

(b) the Channel 4 Corporation;

(c) a person licensed under Part 1 of the 1990 Act to provide Channel 5;

(d) the BBC;

(e) [F127 S4C];

F128 (f) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .]

(4) An order under subsection (3) shall be subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of either House of Parliament.

Textual Amendments

F117 Words in s. 24(1) inserted (1.11.2020) by The Audiovisual Media Services Regulations 2020 (S.I. 2020/1062), regs. 1(2), 3(b)

F118 S. 24(1)(a)-(c) substituted for s. 24(1)(a)(b) (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 93(2) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F119 Words in s. 24(1)(b)(ii) substituted (31.12.2020) by The Broadcasting (Amendment) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 (S.I. 2019/224), reg. 1(2), Sch. 1 para. 5 (with reg. 6) (as amended by S.I. 2020/1536, reg. 5(2)(3)); 2020 c. 1, Sch. 5 para. 1(1)

F120 Word in s. 24(1)(c) substituted (23.8.2024) by Media Act 2024 (c. 15), s. 55(3)(c), Sch. 4 para. 19(2); S.I. 2024/858, reg. 2(1)(x)

F121 Words in s. 24(1)(c) omitted (23.8.2024) by virtue of Media Act 2024 (c. 15), s. 55(3)(a), Sch. 2 para. 9(2); S.I. 2024/858, reg. 2(1)(v)

F122 Words in s. 24(2) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 93(3)(a) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F123 S. 24(2)(a)-(c) substituted for s. 24(2)(a)(b) (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 93(3)(b) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F124 Words in s. 24(3)(a) inserted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 93(4) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F125 S. 24(3A) inserted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 93(5) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F126 Word in s. 24(3A) substituted (23.8.2024) by Media Act 2024 (c. 15), s. 55(3)(c), Sch. 4 para. 19(3)(a); S.I. 2024/858, reg. 2(1)(x)

F127 Word in s. 24(3A) substituted (23.8.2024) by Media Act 2024 (c. 15), s. 55(3)(c), Sch. 4 para. 19(4); S.I. 2024/858, reg. 2(1)(x)

F128 Words in s. 24(3A) omitted (23.8.2024) by virtue of Media Act 2024 (c. 15), s. 55(3)(a), Sch. 2 para. 9(3); S.I. 2024/858, reg. 2(1)(v)

[F129 24A Duty to prevent access to seriously harmful extrinsic material U.K.

(1) In carrying out their functions, OFCOM must do all that they consider appropriate to prevent digital additional services from enabling members of the public to access seriously harmful extrinsic material.

(2) “Seriously harmful extrinsic material”, in relation to a digital additional service, means material that—

(a) is not included in the service, and

(b) appears to OFCOM—

(i) to have the potential to cause serious harm, or

(ii) to be likely to encourage or incite the commission of crime or lead to disorder.]

Textual Amendments

F129 S. 24A inserted (31.7.2017) by Digital Economy Act 2017 (c. 30), ss. 92, 118(6); S.I. 2017/765, reg. 2(x)

25 Licensing of digital additional services. U.K.

(1) An application for a licence to provide digital additional services (in this Part referred to as a “digital additional services licence”) shall—

(a) be made in such manner as [F130 OFCOM] may determine, and

(b) be accompanied by such fee (if any) as they may determine.

(2) At any time after receiving such an application and before determining it, [F130 OFCOM] may require the applicant to furnish such additional information as they may consider necessary for the purpose of considering the application.

(3) Any information to be furnished to [F130 OFCOM] under this section shall, if they so require, be in such form or verified in such manner as they may specify.

(4) Where an application for a digital additional services licence is made to [F130 OFCOM] in accordance with the provisions of this section, they shall grant the licence unless precluded from doing so by section 3(3)(a) or 5(1).

[F131 (4A) A digital additional services licence is not required for a service that is or is comprised in a qualifying service.]

F132 (5) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F133 (6) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

F130 Words in s. 25(1)-(4) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 94(2) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F131 S. 25(4A) inserted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 94(3) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F132 S. 25(5) repealed (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 94(4), Sch. 19(1) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F133 S. 25(6) repealed (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 94(4), Sch. 19(1) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

26 Duration and conditions of digital additional services licence. U.K.

(1) Subject to the provisions of this Part and to section 42 of the 1990 Act as applied by section 27(8), a digital additional services licence shall continue in force until it is surrendered by its holder.

(2) A digital additional services licence shall include such conditions as appear to the Commission to be appropriate for requiring the holder of the licence—

(a) on entering into any agreement with [F134 the provider of a television multiplex service or general multiplex service] for the broadcasting of digital additional services [F135 by means of that provider’s service] , to notify [F136 OFCOM] —

(i) of [F137 the identity of the service by means of which it will be broadcast] ,

(ii) of the period during which the services will be provided,

(iii) where under the agreement the holder of the digital additional services licence will be entitled to the use of a specified amount of digital capacity, of that amount,

(b) when any such agreement is varied so far as it relates to any of the matters mentioned in paragraph (a)(i), (ii) or (iii), to notify [F136 OFCOM] of the variation so far as relating to those matters, and

(c) where he is providing digital additional services to [F138 the provider of a television multiplex service or general multiplex service] in accordance with such an agreement as is mentioned in paragraph (a) but intends to cease doing so, to notify [F136 OFCOM] of that fact.

[F139 (3) A digital additional services licence which authorises the provision of an electronic programme guide (“the guide”) shall also include such conditions as appear to OFCOM to be appropriate for ensuring that, at any time when the guide is a regulated electronic programme guide as defined by section 211A of the Communications Act 2003, the only digital programme services that are listed or promoted by, or which can be accessed through, the guide are digital programme services that—

(a) are provided by or under a licence under this Part, or

(b) do not fall, in pursuance of section 211(1) of the Communications Act 2003, to be regulated by OFCOM.]

Textual Amendments

F134 Words in s. 26(2)(a) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 95(2)(b) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F135 Words in s. 26(2)(a) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 95(2)(c) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F136 Words in s. 26(2) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 95(2)(a) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F137 Words in s. 26(2)(a)(i) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 95(2)(d) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F138 Words in s. 26(2)(c) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 95(2)(b) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F139 S. 26(3) inserted (31.12.2020) by The Broadcasting (Amendment) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 (S.I. 2019/224), reg. 1(2), Sch. 1 para. 6 (with reg. 6) (as amended by S.I. 2020/1536, reg. 5(2)(3)); 2020 c. 1, Sch. 5 para. 1(1)

27 Enforcement of digital additional services licences. U.K.

(1) If [F140 OFCOM] are satisfied that the holder of a digital additional services licence has failed to comply with any condition of the licence or with any direction given by [F140 OFCOM] under or by virtue of any provision of this Part, they may (subject to the following provisions of this section) serve on him—

(a) a notice requiring him to pay, within a specified period, a specified financial penalty to [F140 OFCOM] , or

(b) a notice providing that the licence is to expire on a specified date, which shall be at least one year from the date of service of the notice.

(2) The amount of any financial penalty imposed on any person in pursuance of subsection (1)(a) shall not exceed [F141 the maximum penalty given by subsection (2A).]

[F142 (2A) The maximum penalty is whichever is the greater of—

(a) £250,000; and

(b) 5 per cent. of the aggregate amount of the shares of multiplex revenue attributable to him in relation to television multiplex services and general multiplex services in respect of relevant accounting periods.]

(4) In [F143 subsection (2A)] “relevant accounting period”, in relation to a [F144 television multiplex service or general multiplex service, means the last accounting period of the multiplex provider] .

(5) Where, in the case of any [F145 television multiplex service or general multiplex service, the first accounting period of the multiplex provider] throughout which the holder of the digital additional services licence provides a digital additional service for broadcasting by means of the multiplex service (“the first period”) has [F146 not ended when the penalty is imposed, then for the purposes of this section] the share of multiplex revenue attributable to the holder of the digital additional services licence in relation to that multiplex service for the relevant accounting period shall be taken to be the amount which [F140 OFCOM] estimate to be the share of multiplex revenue attributable to him for the first period.

[F147 (5A) In subsections (4) and (5) “multiplex provider” has the same meaning as in section 14.]

[F148 (5B) Section 15(2) and (3) applies for determining or estimating the share of multiplex revenue attributable to a person for the purposes of subsection (2A) or (5) above.]

(6) [F140 OFCOM] shall not serve on any person such a notice as is mentioned in subsection (1)(a) or (b) unless they have given him a reasonable opportunity of making representations to them about the matters complained of.

(7) Where a licence is due to expire on a particular date by virtue of a notice served on any person under subsection (1)(b), [F140 OFCOM] may, on the application of that person, revoke that notice by a further notice served on him at any time before that date, if they are satisfied that, since the date of the earlier notice, his conduct in relation to the operation of the licensed service has been such as to justify the revocation of that notice.

(8) Subject to subsection (9), sections 40(1) to (4) and section 42 of the 1990 Act shall apply in relation to a digital additional services licence as they apply in relation to a Channel 3 licence.

(9) In its application in relation to a digital additional services licence, section 42 of the 1990 Act shall have effect—

(a) with the substitution for the reference in subsection (1)(a) to Part I of that Act of a reference to this Part, and

(b) with the omission of subsection (4) and of the reference to that subsection in subsection (6).

(10) It is hereby declared that any exercise by [F140 OFCOM] of their powers under subsection (1) in respect of any failure to comply with any condition of a digital additional services licence shall not preclude the exercise by them of their powers under section 40 of the 1990 Act in respect of that failure.

Textual Amendments

F140 Words in s. 27 substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 96(2) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F141 Words in s. 27(2) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 13 para. 15(1)(6) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F142 S. 27(2A) substituted for s. 27(3) (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 13 para. 15(2)(6) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F143 Words in s. 27(4) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 13 para. 15(3)(6) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F144 Words in s. 27(4) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 96(3) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F145 Words in s. 27(5) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 96(4) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F146 Words in s. 27(5) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 13 para. 15(4)(6) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F147 S. 27(5A) inserted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 96(5) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F148 S. 27(5B) inserted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 13 para. 15(5)(6) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C21 S. 27(1) modified (20.7.2004) by The Contracting Out (Functions relating to Broadcast Advertising) and Specification of Relevant Functions Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1975), art. 1, Sch. para. 4(c) (with art. 5)

Digital broadcasting of services provided by independent analogue broadcasters U.K.

F149 28 Provision for broadcasting of services provided by independent analogue broadcasters. U.K.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

F149 S. 28 repealed (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 19(1) Note 1 (with Sch. 18 para. 47); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

29 The S4C digital service. U.K.

F150 (1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F151 (2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F152 (3) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F152 (4) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

F150 S. 29(1) omitted (12.8.2009) by virtue of The Welsh Authority (Digital Switchover) Order 2009 (S.I. 2009/1968), arts. 1, 3

F151 S. 29(2) omitted (23.8.2024) by virtue of Media Act 2024 (c. 15), s. 55(3)(c), Sch. 4 para. 20; S.I. 2024/858, reg. 2(1)(x)

F152 S. 29(3)(4) omitted (12.8.2009) by virtue of The Welsh Authority (Digital Switchover) Order 2009 (S.I. 2009/1968), arts. 1, 3

F153 30 The qualifying teletext service. U.K.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

F153 S. 30 repealed (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 19(1) Note 1 (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F154 31 Advertisements included in qualifying services. U.K.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

F154 S. 31 repealed (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 19(1) Note 1 (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

Miscellaneous and supplemental U.K.

32 Digital broadcasting of Gaelic programmes. U.K.

(1) The Secretary of State may by order provide for [F155 OFCOM to include in no more than one relevant multiplex licence] such conditions relating to the broadcasting of programmes in Gaelic for reception wholly or mainly in Scotland as may be specified in, or determined by them under, the order.

(2) The Secretary of State may by order require the holder of a multiplex licence (“the holder”), in complying with any such conditions, to broadcast programmes in Gaelic supplied by each of the persons mentioned in subsection (4) (“the suppliers”) amounting to such minimum number of hours (if any) of transmission time per year as may be specified in the order in relation to that supplier.

(3) For the purpose of enabling the holder to comply with any such conditions and any obligation imposed by virtue of subsection (2), it shall be the duty of each supplier to provide the holder, free of charge, with such programmes in Gaelic which have been broadcast by the supplier as the holder may request.

(4) The suppliers are—

(a) the BBC,

(b) the Channel Four Television Corporation,

(c) any holder of a Channel 3 licence to provide a regional Channel 3 service (within the meaning of Part I of the 1990 Act) for reception wholly in Scotland, and

(d) such other persons providing television broadcasting services as may be specified by order by the Secretary of State.

(5) Subsection (3) shall not apply in relation to any programme first broadcast by the supplier concerned—

(a) before 1st January 1993, or

(b) in the period beginning on 1st January 1993 and ending on 31st March 1997, if the supplier has no right to broadcast it again or has such a right but is not entitled to transfer it to the holder.

(6) The holder may broadcast any programme supplied by virtue of subsection (3) on one occasion only.

(7) The holder shall consult [F156 Seirbheis nam Meadhanan Gàidhlig] and the suppliers about—

(a) the quantity of programmes likely to be requested by the holder from each supplier by virtue of subsection (3), and

(b) the schedules proposed for the broadcast by the holder of programmes supplied by virtue of that subsection,

and shall have regard to any comments made as a result of such consultation.

(8) Any order under this section shall be subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of either House of Parliament.

[F157 (9) In this section—

“Gaelic” means the Gaelic language as spoken in Scotland;

“relevant multiplex licence” means a multiplex licence in respect of which the Secretary of State has made an order under section 243(3) of the Communications Act 2003;

“television broadcasting service” has the same meaning as in Part 3 of the Communications Act 2003.]

Textual Amendments

F155 Words in s. 32(1) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 97(2) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F156 Words in s. 32(7) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 97(3) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F157 S. 32(9) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 97(4) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

33 Review of digital television broadcasting. U.K.

(1) For the purpose of considering for how long it would be appropriate for television broadcasting services to continue to be provided in analogue form, the Secretary of State—

(a) shall keep under review the extent of—

(i) the provision in the United Kingdom of multiplex services,

(ii) the availability in the United Kingdom in digital form of the [F158 following services, namely, Channel 3 services, Channel 4, Channel 5, the public television services of [F159 S4C] (within the meaning of Part 2 of Schedule 12 to the Communications Act 2003), F160 ...] and the television broadcasting services of the BBC, and

(iii) the ownership or possession in the United Kingdom of equipment capable of receiving the services referred to in sub-paragraph (ii) when broadcast or transmitted in digital form,

and the likely future extent of such provision, such availability and such ownership or possession, and

(b) shall, on or before the fourth anniversary of the day on which the first multiplex licence is granted under section 8, and at such time or times thereafter as he thinks fit, require [F161 OFCOM] and the BBC to report to him on the matters referred to in paragraph (a).

(2) If [F161 OFCOM] or the BBC are required to submit a report under subsection (1)(b), they shall submit the report within twelve months of the date of the requirement.

(3) Before making any report under subsection (1)(b), [F161 OFCOM] shall consult—

(a) the holders of all multiplex licences,

(b) the holders of digital programme licences who are providing digital programme services which are being broadcast,

(c) such other persons providing services licensed by the Commission under this Part or Part I F162 ... of the 1990 Act as [F161 OFCOM] think fit, and

(d) [F163 S4C];

and [F161 OFCOM] shall include in their report a summary of representations made to them by the persons consulted.

(4) For the purpose mentioned in subsection (1), the Secretary of State shall, on requiring reports under subsection (1)(b), consult—

(a) such persons appearing to him to represent viewers as he thinks fit, and

(b) such other persons as he thinks fit,

in connection with the matters referred to in subsection (1)(a) and also, if the Secretary of State thinks fit, as to the likely effects on viewers of any television broadcasting service ceasing to be broadcast in analogue form.

(5) In this section “television broadcasting service” has the same meaning as in Part I of the 1990 Act.

Textual Amendments

F158 Words in s. 33(1)(a)(ii) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 98(3) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F159 Word in s. 33(1)(a)(ii) substituted (23.8.2024) by Media Act 2024 (c. 15), s. 55(3)(c), Sch. 4 para. 21; S.I. 2024/858, reg. 2(1)(x)

F160 Words in s. 33(1)(a)(ii) omitted (23.8.2024) by virtue of Media Act 2024 (c. 15), s. 55(3)(a), Sch. 2 para. 10; S.I. 2024/858, reg. 2(1)(v)

F161 Words in s. 33 substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 98(2) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F162 Words in s. 33(3)(c) repealed (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 19(1) Note 1 (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F163 Word in s. 33(3)(d) substituted (23.8.2024) by Media Act 2024 (c. 15), s. 55(3)(c), Sch. 4 para. 21; S.I. 2024/858, reg. 2(1)(x)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C22 S. 33: transfer of functions (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 1 para. 11 (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F164 34 Promotion of equal opportunities and fair treatment. U.K.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

F164 S. 34 repealed (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 19(1) Note 1 (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

35 Enforcement of licences held by BBC companies. U.K.

Where [F165 OFCOM] —

(a) give a direction to a BBC company under section 40(1) of the 1990 Act as applied by section 23(8) or 27(8),

(b) serve a notice on a BBC company under any provision of section 17, 23 or 27, or

(c) receive any representations from a BBC company under section 17(4), 23(6) or 27(6) or under section 42 of the 1990 Act as so applied,

[F165 OFCOM] shall send a copy of the direction, notice or representations to the Secretary of State.

Textual Amendments

F165 Word in s. 35 substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 99 (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

36 Power to vary amount of financial penalties. U.K.

(1) The Secretary of State may by order amend any of the provisions specified in subsection (2) by substituting a different sum for the sum for the time being specified there.

[F166 (2) The provisions referred to in subsection (1) are—

(a) section 11(5B)(a) and (5C)(a);

(b) section 17(2A)(a);

(c) section 23(2A)(a); and

(d) section 27(2A)(a).

(3) No order is to be made under subsection (1) unless a draft of the order has been laid before Parliament and approved by a resolution of each House.]

Textual Amendments

F166 S. 36(2)(3) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 13 para. 16 (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

37 Computation of multiplex revenue. U.K.

Part I of Schedule 1 (which contains provisions relating to the computation of multiplex revenue for the purposes of this Part) shall have effect.

F167 38 Certain receipts of Commission to be paid into Consolidated Fund. U.K.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

F167 S. 38 repealed (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 19(1) Note 1 (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

39 Interpretation of Part I. U.K.

(1) In this Part—

• “ancillary service” has the meaning given by section 24(2);

• F168 ...

• “a Channel 3 licence” has the same meaning as in Part I of the 1990 Act and “a Channel 3 service” means a regional or national Channel 3 service (within the meaning of that Part);

• “Channel 4”, “Channel 5” and “a Channel 5 licence” have the same meaning as in Part I of the 1990 Act;

• [F169 "CTT State” means a State which is for the time being a party to the European Convention on Transfrontier Television;]

• F170 ...

• “digital additional service” has the meaning given by section 24(1), and “digital additional services licence” means a licence to provide such services;

• “digital programme service” has the meaning given by section 1(4), and “digital programme licence” means a licence to provide such services;

• F171 ...

• [F172 “digital sound programme service” has the same meaning as in Part 2 of this Act;

• [F173 “the European Convention on Transfrontier Television” means the Council of Europe Convention on Transfrontier Television which was opened for signature at Strasbourg on 5th May 1989, as amended by the Protocol which was opened for signature at Strasbourg on 1st October 1998;]

• F174 ...

• “general multiplex service” has the same meaning as in that Part;]

• “independent analogue broadcaster” has the meaning given by section 2(1);

• “licence” means a licence under this Part, and “licensed” shall be construed accordingly;

• “multiplex service” has the meaning given by section 1(1), and “multiplex licence” means a licence to provide such a service;

• F175 ...

• “qualifying service” has the meaning given by section 2(2);

• F170 ...

• [F176 F177 ... “S4C Digital” F178 ... has the same meaning as in Part 3 of the Communications Act 2003;]

• “technical service” has the meaning given by section 24(3).

• [F179 “television licensable content service” has the meaning given by section 232 of the Communications Act 2003;]

• [F180 “television multiplex service]” has the meaning given by section 241 of the Communications Act 2003.

(2) Where the person who is for the time being the holder of any licence (“the present licence holder”) is not the person to whom the licence was originally granted, any reference in this Part (however expressed) to the holder of the licence shall be construed, in relation to any time falling before the date when the present licence holder became the holder of it, as including a reference to a person who was previously the holder of the licence.

Textual Amendments

F168 Words in s. 39(1) omitted (31.12.2020) by virtue of The Broadcasting (Amendment) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 (S.I. 2019/224), reg. 1(2), Sch. 1 para. 7(a) (with reg. 6) (as amended by S.I. 2020/1536, reg. 5(2)(3)); 2020 c. 1, Sch. 5 para. 1(1)

F169 Words in s. 39(1) inserted (31.12.2020) by The Broadcasting (Amendment) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 (S.I. 2019/224), reg. 1(2), Sch. 1 para. 7(b) (with reg. 6) (as amended by S.I. 2020/1536, reg. 5(2)(3)); 2020 c. 1, Sch. 5 para. 1(1)

F170 Words in s. 39(1) repealed (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 19(1) Note 1 (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F171 Words in s. 39(1) omitted (23.8.2024) by virtue of Media Act 2024 (c. 15), s. 55(3)(a), Sch. 2 para. 11(a); S.I. 2024/858, reg. 2(1)(v)

F172 Words in s. 39(1) inserted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 100(a) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F173 Words in s. 39(1) inserted (31.12.2020) by The Broadcasting (Amendment) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 (S.I. 2019/224), reg. 1(2), Sch. 1 para. 7(c) (with reg. 6) (as amended by S.I. 2020/1536, reg. 5(2)(3)); 2020 c. 1, Sch. 5 para. 1(1)

F174 Words in s. 39(1) omitted (31.12.2020) by virtue of The Broadcasting (Amendment) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 (S.I. 2019/224), reg. 1(2), Sch. 1 para. 7(d) (with reg. 6) (as amended by S.I. 2020/1536, reg. 5(2)(3)); 2020 c. 1, Sch. 5 para. 1(1)

F175 Words in s. 39(1) omitted (23.8.2024) by virtue of Media Act 2024 (c. 15), s. 55(3)(a), Sch. 2 para. 11(b); S.I. 2024/858, reg. 2(1)(v)

F176 Words in s. 39(1) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 100(c) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F177 Words in s. 39(1) omitted (23.8.2024) by virtue of Media Act 2024 (c. 15), s. 55(3)(c), Sch. 4 para. 22(a); S.I. 2024/858, reg. 2(1)(x)

F178 Word in s. 39(1) omitted (23.8.2024) by virtue of Media Act 2024 (c. 15), s. 55(3)(c), Sch. 4 para. 22(b); S.I. 2024/858, reg. 2(1)(x)

F179 Words in s. 39(1) inserted (25.7.2006) by The Television Licensable Content Services Order 2006 (S.I. 2006/2131), arts. 1(1), 5(2)

F180 Words in s. 39(1) inserted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 100(d) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)