26 September 2007
The BBC could launch its own high-definition television channel (HDTV) in the future, after getting the go-ahead for the service from the BBC Trust.
Viewers will now be asked for their opinions on whether the new channel should be made available on digital terrestrial television platform, Freeview, immediately via a set-top box or at some point in the not-too-distant future.
Currently Freeview is not compatible with HD televison, unlike satellite and cable television where trials of the service are already taking place.
If HDTV was implemented straightaway many people with Freeview would be forced to go out and buy another set-top box capable of transmitting the high quality pictures.
Diane Coyle, a BBC trustee, said: "Our view is that these proposals would deliver significant public value and create very little adverse market impact.
"We are particularly interested in the public's view about the options for an HD channel on Freeview.
"Would licence fee payers prefer the BBC to launch a four-hour service immediately, before a nine-hour service is possible because of spectrum capacity, even if that means having to buy two set-top boxes within a very short space of time?," she questioned.
The trust has now launched a public consultation, lasting until Ocotber 23rd, to gauge opinion on the proposals before the expected publication of its conclusions on November 21st.
The corporation trialled HDTV last year with the broadcast of Planet Earth and Bleak House.
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