OFT decision over ITV has serious implications - Foster

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Fri 27th Apr 2007

Commenting on the news that the Office of Fair Trading has recommended that BskyB's acquisition of a 17.9% stake in ITV be referred to the Competition Commission, Liberal Democrat Shadow Culture, Media and Sport Secretary, Don Foster MP said: "The OFT's conclusion that ITV is no longer fully independent has major implications for the broadcasting market.

"Competition is essential to ensure the survival of quality broadcasting, anything that would limit this must be treated with the utmost seriousness.

"Further investigation must reflect the importance of ensuring digital switchover is a success for the whole nation. Any proven competition concerns must be remedied to prevent switchover from being derailed.

"Legal ambiguities of the Enterprise Act allowed this purchase to go ahead. After this case is settled, the Government must consider whether current laws on media competition are adequate for the digital media age."