Questions invited on BBC Local Video
- Published: 24 June 2008 12:53
- Author: Greg Brooks
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- Last Updated: 24 June 2008 14:26
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Ofcom is asking stakeholders in the news industry to submit their questions ahead of its Market Impact Assessment (MIA) of the BBC's proposed Local Video service.
The MIA is being launched at the same time that the BBC Trust launches its public value test (PVT) of the proposals, which will see the BBC expand upon the existing BBC Local websites on bbc.co.uk and focus on 60 areas, typically a county or conurbation, across the UK.
The service would create bespoke local video news, sport and weather to complement the BBC's existing online provision. In Wales, the BBC proposes to offer the service in both the Welsh and English languages.
The MIA will examine the likely impact of the service proposed by the BBC on similar and related products and services, examining in particular the extent to which the service might affect innovation and investment in the commercial sector.
Ofcom will consider the impact upon: local newspapers and associated online services; local radio stations and associated online services; local and regional TV services and associated online services; mobile TV services; and other online services.
The BBC Trust is also asking for industry input. "The Trust is inviting all interested parties to participate in our consultation on BBC management's proposals," said Diane Coyle, BBC Trustee and chair of the Trust's Public Value and Fair Trading Committee.
"We want to receive all comments – positive and negative – from the public and the industry before we consider the application in detail."
The results of the MIA will be published alongside the BBC Trust's Public Value Assessment on 18 November 2008.
