Free-TV licence applications in process
May 30, 2012
Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development Gregory So said today the outcome of the free-TV licence applications will have a profound impact on the domestic free television programme service market.
In reply to a lawmaker's query, he said the Government has been processing the recommendations the former Broadcasting Authority submitted "expeditiously and prudently, in accordance with the statutory requirements and established procedures."
The outcome will be announced after the Chief Executive in Council makes a decision.
City Telecom (Hong Kong) Limited, Fantastic Television Limited and Hong Kong Television Entertainment Company Limited have each submitted an application for a domestic free television programme service licence.
Mr So said the authority had assessed their applications in accordance with the Broadcasting Ordinance, with a number of relevant factors being taken into account.
“Such factors include the requirements under the Broadcasting Ordinance, the assessment criteria set out in the Guidance Note for Those Interested in Applying for Domestic Free Television Programme Service Licences in Hong Kong issued by the Communications Authority, public opinions and possible impact of new licences on the free television programme service market,” he said.
Assessment criteria set out in the guidance note include the applicant's financial soundness and commitment to investment, managerial skills, technical expertise, and the variety, quantity and quality of programmes to be provided.
Mr So said the Chief Executive in Council will also take into account these factors in deciding whether to grant the licences.
The authority had conducted a public consultation exercise from July to September 2010, and received 256 submissions, he added.
“It also submitted a summary of views received to the Chief Executive in Council for consideration. The Chief Executive in Council will take into account the views of the public before making a decision on the three applications.”
