Overview

This bill amends the Communications Act 2003 to allow for the creation of small-scale radio multiplex services. These services will be regulated differently than larger national or local services, offering opportunities for localized broadcasting but under specific guidelines set by the Secretary of State and Ofcom.

Description

The bill introduces a new section (258A) into the Communications Act 2003 to govern "small-scale radio multiplex services." These services will be defined by area size and other characteristics specified in orders made by the Secretary of State. These orders will have the power to:

• Determine licence duration (set limits for Ofcom to decide within).
• Specify eligibility criteria for licences, potentially excluding those with interests in larger services.
• Mandate non-commercial operation of these services.
• Consider the impact on existing local radio multiplex licence holders.
• Reserve broadcast capacity for specific types of programming.
• Regulate the types of services broadcast.

The Secretary of State can create different rules for different areas based on existing coverage from larger services. The bill also includes provisions for extending these regulations to the Channel Islands and Isle of Man.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify any government spending. However, there may be indirect costs associated with the administration of the new licensing scheme by Ofcom and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.

Groups Affected

• Local Community Groups/Organizations: May benefit from the opportunity to establish localized radio services.
• Existing Radio Broadcasters: Potential impact on existing national and local radio multiplex services, depending on how the Secretary of State defines and regulates the "small-scale" services.
• Ofcom: Will be responsible for licensing and regulating these new services.
• Department for Culture, Media and Sport: Will be responsible for setting the overarching framework and guidelines.

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