Ofcom has published the second phase of its statutory review of public service broadcasting, setting out key proposals to maintain and strengthen public service television in the digital age.
Section 264 of the Communications Act 2003 requires Ofcom to report on the effectiveness of the existing public service broadcasters – BBC , ITV, Channel 4, S4C, Five and Teletext – in the delivery of their public service broadcasting obligations; and to make recommendations for the continuation of public service broadcasting in the years ahead.
The Phase 2 Report …

Transcript of the Second Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation – Draft Community Radio Order 2004.
The Community Radio Order 2004 was accepted in parliament on Tuesday 13 July 2004 paving the way for applications from Community Organisations for long term licences to broadcast. The Committee discussion ranged from the definition of Community Radio through to the ways in which the funding and maintenance of Community Stations should be carried out. Following the successful pilot Access Radio scheme sanctioned by the Radio Authority, Ofcom has now worked fast to develop the …

Ofcom is pleased to announce that it has decided to extend the period of the pilot scheme for Community Radio for a further year, until 31 December 2004. Licence extensions will be subject to frequency availability and to Ofcom being satisfied that the licensees have the ability to continue and are delivering on the promises set out in their licences.

The Radio Authority is delighted that Government has agreed to extend the period of the Access Radio pilot scheme. This will help to inform Parliament, Government, and Ofcom further about how to introduce this exciting new third tier of radio services.
Licence extensions will be subject to frequency availability, and to the Authority being satisfied that the licensees have the ability to continue and are able to meet their promises of delivery.