Voice of the Listener and Viewer (VLV) represents the citizen and consumer interest
in broadcasting and works for quality and diversity in British broadcasting.

VLV wants to know the hidden agenda behind the Communications Bill

VLV does not understand the motives behind many of the proposals in the Communications Bill nor do we agree that they will benefit listeners and viewers, citizens or consumers.

VLV is therefore organising a series of events to debate some of the most controversial policies in the draft Bill because we believe they have the potential to affect almost every aspect of British cultural and democratic life. 

Key speakers from the media, politics and academe will join in the debate and provide a unique opportunity for VLV members and the public to make their views known and to hear and question some of the policy makers involved. 

Some of the issues include: 

Media ownership: why is the government so determined to allow British radio and TV companies to be sold to foreign owners?  How would the new ‘light touch’ OFCOM cope with the powerful multi-national corporations concerned? 

How strong a regulator will OFCOM prove to be? Will its Content Board have the power, resources and will to defend the public interest in broadcasting?  Especially in the face of powerful multi-national corporations if the ownership rules are changed?

Children’s Programming: can the Content Board provide adequate protection for quality Children’s programming?

Regional interests: how would a single owner affect ITV’s regional programming and the way it serves the nations of the UK?

Life long learning: what future is there for broadcast adult education and the economic and social benefits it can bring to individuals and the nation as a whole? 

A special, extra emergency /urgent meeting, The Communications Bill - threat or promise will cover all these themes on 2 December, at the Commonwealth Club, Northumberland Avenue, London WC2, from 6- 8pm. 

The meeting will be held at the start of the week in which we expect the Bill to receive its crucially important second reading in the House of Commons. 

Telephone: 01474 352835.
Fax: 01474 351112.
E-mail: vlv@btinternet.com

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