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Link DetailsRules on airing RTHK shows lifted The Communications Authority announced today the revocation of directions issued to domestic free television programme service licensees on the requirements to broadcast Radio Television Hong Kong (RTHK) programmes.
Pursuant to the relevant licence condition in free TV licences, the authority may direct a licensee to include in its service such television programmes and other material in the public interest provided by the Government.
At present, Television Broadcasts Limited (TVB) and HK Television Entertainment Company Limited (HKTVE) are required to broadcast 3.5 hours and 2.5 hours respectively per week of RTHK programmes on their integrated Chinese channels.
On January 9, 2020, the authority received a request from TVB to lift the requirements on broadcasting RTHK programmes.
The authority noted the requirements were first introduced in 1990 when RTHK did not operate its own TV channels.
RTHK started operating three digital terrestrial television channels in 2014 and their population coverage reached 99% last year, which was on a par with that of commercial TV broadcasters which also provide free TV service via airwaves.
Some of RTHK's TV channels are currently accessible through its website and mobile application. Some regular RTHK programmes are also being rerun on RTHK's channels after their first run on free TV channels.
After considering TVB?s request and the Commerce & Economic Development Bureau?s views, the authority concurred that there is no justifiable reason to continue to require commercial broadcasters to broadcast RTHK programmes.
The authority emphasised that lifting the requirements would enable free TV licensees to put the spectrum and airtime released to more efficient use. The vacated time slots could be used to broadcast other programmes, providing more diversified TV programme choices to the public.
This could also allow commercial broadcasters to generate more advertising or sponsorship income, facilitating their business amidst the increasing challenges faced by the broadcasting industry, it explained.
It added the decision would be consistent with the policy objective to facilitate innovation and sustainable development of the broadcasting industry.
The authority noted that RTHK has no objection to the request.
It has informed TVB and HKTVE of the decision to revoke the directions. The two licensees may decide whether and, if so, when to cease broadcasting RTHK programmes on their channels. |
