broadcasting

 

The DCMS encourages innovation, competition and greater choice for listeners in radio services.  We are committed to working with the commercial broadcasters and Ofcom to ensure our legislative framework supports this.

 

Under the Broadcasting Acts 1990 and 1996 and the Communications Act 2003, Ofcom is responsible for licensing and regulating all independent radio services on both analogue and digital platforms.

 

Radio listening remains a popular medium and listeners have a wide choice of stations.  As at 31 December 2005, there are 3 national commercial stations (Classic FM, TalkSPORT and Virgin 1215) and 1 national digital multiplex carrying 8 radio services.  In addition there are over 270 independent local radio (ILR) analogue services and 46 local digital multiplexes carrying over 200 radio services.  There are around 120 Radio Licensable Content Service Licences in issue, and more than 120 long-term restricted services.  There are also around 70 Local Digital Sound Programme and 11 National Digital Sound Programme licences in issue; and over 4,600 short-term Restricted Service Licenses (RSLs). For more information go to Ofcom's website.