If broadcaster ATV cannot deliver a service, the proper course of action would be to seek an early surrender of its licence to facilitate service delivery by Radio Television Hong Kong and HK Television Entertainment, Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development Gregory So says.
Mr So was asked today if the Government had any contingency measures in the event that RTHK may have to take over ATV's broadcasting service before April 1 when its licence expires.
He noted that the short-term tenancies needed to be terminated to recover the transmission sites. The spectrum for RTHK to deliver television services and for new licence holder HK Television Entertainment to deliver digital TV services also needed to be obtained.
Mr So added that RTHK has followed established procedures by procuring the service by way of tender.
He warned that if ATV cannot deliver the service until April 1, there might be a gap involved because the terms of the tender exercise cannot be bypassed.
Mr So pointed out that ATV is not following some of its licence conditions by failing to air news programmes, adding that the Communications Authority will look at the specific action involved to decide on the sanction.
"On the lighter side, there would be a warning, on the more heavy side there could be a suspension or revocation of the licence," he said.
