30 March 2006
A group of MPs have raised concerns over the UK's switch to digital TV.
Current government targets aim to complete the change to digital TV by 2012, costing consumers between £80 and £570.
The culture, media and sport committee said in a report that much more of an effort should be made to explain to the public why the analogue switch off is proceeding, what options are open to them and on whom the costs and benefits of the change-over will fall.
It also warned that Digital TV, the body set up to oversee the country's switch from analogue to digital, could "lack the authority and resources to manage the interests of a diverse group of industry stakeholders should their bonds of mutual self interest come under strain".
More should also be done to help vulnerable groups who might be left behind during the switch.
Committee chairman and Conservative MP, John Whittingdale, said: "Whilst the government can be commended for its decision to start the process of switch-off in just two years time, it needs to start leading from the front if it's to ensure that it can be achieved smoothly and with maximum public support and the minimum of disruption.
"Currently there are too many people who do not qualify for government assistance, yet are in genuine need," he added.
"If switch-off is to be a success, there must be no-one who wakes up on the day to discover that they are watching a blank screen."
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