Voice of the Listener & Viewer

Working for Quality and DiversityBulletin in Broadcasting Autumn 2006 Issue 86 A Changing BBC: accountability Tony Robinson to and creativity open VLV’s conference

VLV’s 23rd Annual Autumn Conference diversity of high quality indigenous programmes Tuesday, 28 November 2006, and seeks permission from Ofcom to drop all but two hours of its children’s output at weekends 10.45am – 3.30pm The conference will consider the far-reaching Overseas House, Park Place, implications of this development which will affect off St James’ Street, London SW1 the future quality, cost and accessibility of children’s broadcasting services throughout the The BBC is in a period of intense flux. Although United Kingdom. What will be the impact on our its Royal Charter has been renewed for another children of the loss of output reflecting their own ten years, a settlement on the licence fee has society? How will Britain’s cultural identity be yet to be reached. No decision is expected preserved by programmes whose subject-matter, before the end of the year. In the meantime, treatment and language are aimed at a global rumours abound that the Corporation will not market? The BBC’s future plans for its children’s channels and children’s changing use of the media be given the amount it asked for - 2.3% above are also on the day’s agenda. retail price inflation (RPI), about a fifth of which may be needed to cover the cost of Among other confirmed speakers are: helping the nation to switch to digital • Richard Deverell, Controller, BBC Children’s television. Pending an announcement, the BBC • Anne Gilchrist, Creative Director, CBBC cannot finalise any of its plans so the proposed • Michael Carrington, Creative Director, CBeebies move of some departments to Manchester and • Nick Wilson: Controller, Children’s & Youth investment in its Creative Futures programme Programmes, Channel Five and Creative Archive are now stalled. Children’s Television: • Anna Home: Chief Executive, Under the new Charter and Agreement, the Children’s Film and Television Foundation governance of the BBC will change from 1st Where Now? • Tim Suter, Senior Partner, Content & January 2007. The Board of Governors will then be Standards, Ofcom replaced by a Board of Trustees distanced further Thursday, 2 November • John McVay, Chief Executive, PACT from the BBC’s daily operations. , at The Royal Society, Carlton House • Nigel Pickard, Director of Family currently chairing the Board of Governors, will Terrace, London SW1, 9.45am-5pm. Entertainment, RDF Television become Chair of the new Trustees and three of • Camilla Byk, parent and VLV member the present Governors will accompany him: Tony Robinson, well known broadcaster, performer Speakers from ITV, Disney World Television Dermot Gleeson, Richard Tait and Jeremy Peat. and actor whose work has included writing and and Turner Broadcasting have been invited. With great interest in the conference a Recruiting for the outstanding vacancies is now starring in several children’s programmes, will capacity audience is expected. going on, following a public search for candidates, open VLV’s 12th Annual conference on VLV’s autumn conference will focus on all Children’s broadcasting on 2nd November For tickets & information contact aspects of the changing BBC. Among the speakers Children’s Television is in crisis as ITV seeks to [email protected] or 01474352835 will be Mark Wakefield, Head of Performance and end its distinguished record of providing a wide Chris Woolard, Head of Compliance and Value for Money in the newly-formed Governance Unit. Other speakers, from the creative content and Inside other divisions, have yet to be confirmed. The programme will also include a short update on Naomi Sargant Editorial Comment VLV Summer Conference digital issues. VLV’s 4th AGM Guest Contributor Letters For tickets and details please VLV’s 2006 Appeal VLV Awards Digital Update contact [email protected] Save Kids’ TV Who’s Who Competition or call 01474 352835

ISSN 1475-2948 Naomi Sargant 10.12.33 – 23.7.06

Although some channel’s blueprint. In Volume 6 of the History of Voice of the Listener & Viewer of us were Independent Television in Britain, Paul Bonner aware that listed the priorities she set out for the new service Working for Quality and Diversity in British Broadcasting Naomi was before it came on air. They included Arts and VLV Patrons gravely ill, news History, Basic Skills, The Environment, Health and Lord Barnet PC JP of her death Family, Workers and the Unemployed, Leisure, Archbishop Lord Eames of Armagh in late July Science and Technology, and Programmes for Sir Francis Graham-Smith FRS came as a shock: Children. Without sacrificing her prime Lord Inglewood MEP the abrupt commitment to education, she succeeded in Sir Charles Mackerras, KT, CBE extinguishing producing programmes many of which earned their Dame Mary Peters DBE of a brightly- place in the mainstream of the output. Her efforts Lord Phillips of Sudbury OBE burning flame. were frequently tempest-tossed, but ultimately Lord Puttnam of Queensgate CBE The metaphor proved a truly handsome fulfilment of the Lady Solti has a particular resonance since a fiery spirit channel’s obligations to innovation and diversity. Lord Thomson of Monifieth KT PC had sustained her throughout her life. The range She richly deserved the place given to her in its Sir John Tusa of her interests, most of them better described Hall of Fame by the Royal Television Society. as enduring commitments, was broad. Children In 1988, at the time of the White Paper on Directors and their families at Great Ormond Street, Broadcasting, Naomi’s concerns for the interests of Jocelyn Hay CBE (Hon Chairman) young people with learning difficulties at the citizens and consumers led her to join VLV. She Colin Graeme Thompson FCA, FIRM (Hon Treas.) Harington Scheme in North London, consumers was a tireless member of the management team Robert Beveridge at the Gas Council, students at the University of before and after the formation of VLV Ltd, a step John Clark East London and the Open University: these for which she had been a staunch advocate. Her Professor Bob Franklin, PhD were only a few of the groups to whom she membership of the Board of Trustees was marked Terry Glover gave outstanding public service. by equal energy. Throughout that time she Professor Máire Messenger Davies, PhD, FRSA, When in 1980 Jeremy Isaacs invited Naomi to continued to be inspired by her conviction that Warren Newman leave the Open University and become Channel 4’s broadcasting should remain a source of education, Dr Andrew Taussig first Commissioning Editor for Education, she left especially for the under-privileged, as much in the behind her a decade-long record of distinguished coming digital age as in the fading analogue era. Company Secretary work at the O.U. At Channel 4, she was to oversee VLV offers its deepest sympathies to Naomi’s Waterlow Registrars Ltd the development of educational programming husband, Lord McIntosh, and their sons in their The Voice of the Listener Trust which formed a prominent feature of the new great loss. Colin Shaw (reg charity 296207) VLV’s sister charity leading role. We have good reason to be very which supports VLV’s educational work Changes to the Board - grateful for what he has contributed to VLV so far. Chairman: Elizabeth Smith OBE Retirement of Vincent Bob Fletcher, who was Secretary: Jocelyn Hay CBE formerly with the British Trustees: Porter and Bob Fletcher Council, also served on VLV’s Michael Barton We are very sorry to be losing the services of two Management Committee and Professor Sylvia Harvey long-standing members of the VLV Board. the Board of VLV Ltd. Indeed, Dr Andrew Taussig Vincent Porter retired last he kindly volunteered to serve VLV office hours: year as Director of the Centre as Honorary Secretary to the 9.00am - 5.00pm Mon-Thurs for Communications & former and Company Information Studies at the Secretary to the latter in the Voice of the Listener & Viewer Ltd (VLV) University of Westminster. formative years after represents the citizen and consumer Over the years he has served incorporation. His knowledge of technical and interests in broadcasting and works for for three terms on the VLV engineering matters proved especially valuable on quality and diversity in British broadcasting. Management Committee and issues arising from the move to digital switch-over. VLV is free from political, sectarian and later on the Board of VLV Ltd. For many members he will be a familiar figure as commercial affiliations. VLV is concerned During that time he has he deployed those practical skills to manage the PA contributed invaluably in many different ways to with the issues, structures, institutions system at numerous VLV events. We thank him for VLV’s policy making. We are particularly grateful to and regulation that underpin the British his much-valued support and wish him well. him for sharing his special expertise and knowledge broadcasting system and in particular of politics and the broadcasting industry. He has to maintain the principles of public been remarkable for the time and care he has put service in broadcasting. into drafting many impressive briefings and VLV does not handle complaints. submissions. They have contributed enormously to VLV’s 4th AGM the respect in which VLV is held by Government, the The 4th AGM of VLV Ltd will follow the autumn Design & Production regulators and the broadcasters. It is reassuring to conference at 4pm on Tuesday, 28th November High Profile Ltd, Tel: 01474 533077 know that he will continue to serve on VLV’s policy at Overseas House, Park Place, St James’ Street, Published by Voice of the Listener & Viewer Ltd, and strategy committee. His knowledge of European London, SW1. A private company limited by guarantee legislation and issues has been of particular value – Nominations and resolutions should be sent (number 4407712) expertise he will now put to good use as he to the Company Secretary at 101 Kings Drive, Registered address: succeeds Jocelyn Hay as President of the European Gravesend, Kent DA12 5BQ, no fewer than three days 101 Kings' Drive, Gravesend, Kent DA12 5BQ. Alliance of Listeners’ & Viewers’ Associations and not more than twenty-one days before the AGM. Tel: 01474 352835 Fax: 01474 351112. (EURALVA), an international body which VLV was We hope that members will join us for tea at E-mail: [email protected] instrumental in forming and in which it plays a 3.30pm before the meeting. Website: www.vlv.org.uk

2 Bulletin Autumn 2006 Working for Quality and Diversity in Broadcasting Promoting the Public Interest in Broadcasting VLV’s 2006 Appeal, launched by Melvyn Bragg on 28th September

dedicated time, effort and above all intelligence to commercial world, not only the temptation but preserving what they see as the highest standards the necessity to beat them at their own game will in British broadcasting. The extent of their grow. We all hope that the new licence fee influence reflects a force of will by guardians of settlement will give the BBC enough to maintain the public good doing what needs to be done – a its high Public Service purpose even though it may throwback to the 19th Century notion of public mean trimming some of its commercial ventures. will and public good. We also hope that Channel 4 will stay firmly in VLV’s independence; even its amateur nature, the PSB field and that ITV1’s contribution of 29% has been a great help. The place of the amateur of its output to PSB is enabled to grow – will they scholar has been crucial in British life. VLV has be able to continue on this path? VLV’s lobbying proved itself to be in that band of true progressives. to ensure that the Government listens to what the What distinguishes British broadcasting is that the public wants is an essential element in the public service component is very well subsidised, process of maintaining quality, as its fight to Jocelyn Hay VLV chairman, Melvyn Bragg and Elizabeth very well produced and very well displayed on preserve Radio 4 demonstrated. Smith, chairman of The Voice of the Listener Trust at the launch of the appeal. screen. We have a Public Service element which is Hence this appeal. unlike anything else in the world. The amount sought is both modest and A group of VLV members and supporters The inevitable profit-seeking by the multiple attainable: £30,000 over the next year. Plans are gathered at the British Academy for the formal channels have already had an impact on the afoot to garner this and already early a third has launch of VLV’s 2006 appeal ‘Promoting the mainstream channels – and in an increasingly been raised. We all want to thank those who have Public Interest in Broadcasting’ by Melvyn Bragg contributed and wish VLV well in its essential and on 28 September. The background to the appeal important ambitions. was explained by Jocelyn Hay. Elizabeth Smith, 2006 Appeal Chairman of the Voice of the Listener Trust Donations may be sent directly to VLV. They may also be sent to VLV’’s sister charity, The Voice of supported her. The following is a summary of the Listener Trust, registered number 296 207, which supports many of the charitable activities of VLV. Lord Bragg’s remarks. We are most grateful for all those who have already contributed to the appeal and wish to explain My first thought when Jocelyn asked me to that we realise that in some of our letters we did not make it clear that The Voice of the Listener launch this appeal was how on earth has VLV Trust supports only those activities of VLV that fall within its own objects: to educate the public made such an impact for 23 years without more about all aspects of broadcasting, including its role in society, and to commission and publish research. appeals! The answer lies in the people who have

Is it right that our children should be brought up with a Disneyfied view of their own culture Save Kids’ TV! and history? Shouldn’t the channels which target young British viewers be required to invest in the Save Kids’ TV is a new campaign set up in the solution to a problem which requires a total change production of programmes which are made in the face of the crisis now confronting children’s of lifestyle. Surely Ofcom cannot wish to see the UK to reflect and reinforce our own values and television in the UK. VLV is a founder member, end of children’s programmes on all the culture? Shouldn’t a way be found to support the speaking as a veteran of a ten-year struggle to mainstream commercial channels. To begin with, continued broadcasting on ITV and other convince the Government and the regulators of the price for that could be the loss of a highly commercial channels of programmes which reflect the growing threat to this crucial strand in successful and profitable industry, admired around the location, language, culture and values of the British broadcasting the world for its excellence. But much more is at young people who watch them? The problem is that ITV’s audiences are risk. Writers, artists and programme-makers with If you would like to know more about the increasingly turning to digital channels. As a result, real concern for children’s needs have created a campaign ‘Save Kids’ TV’, please join us at VLV’s advertising revenue is falling and last year Ofcom, great tradition of much loved programmes. Remember annual conference: ‘Children’s Television: Where the regulator, allowed ITV to reduce its hours of Rainbow and Magpie and dramas, from the classic Now?’ at The Royal Society, London, on 2nd religious, regional and children’s programmes. Now Snow Spider to the more recent My Parents are November, or visit the Save Kids’ TV website: with its revenues further threatened, this time by a Aliens? That tradition would be lost for ever. www.savekidsTV or contact Greg Childs at proposed ban on the advertising of high fat, sugar The BBC does an excellent job, but as its own 020 8810 8856. and salt products, ITV has sought permission to cut Controller of Children’s Programmes, Richard its weekly hours of children’s programmes to just Deverall, says, the BBC needs competition to keep two at the weekend. Fortunately, Ofcom has it on its toes. That will not come from the satellite refused it. channels, almost all of which are subsidiaries of ITV has recently spent £35 million a year on multi-national corporations, broadcasting largely commissioning children’s programmes but can it American programmes, including many soaps or continue to do so? The proposed ban on HFSS cartoons primarily designed to market related products could lead to the commercial companies merchandise. The largest penetration of satellite losing between £30 and £100 million. If an take-up is in homes with children. The young alternative source of funding cannot be found, viewers who spend most of their time watching can Ofcom go on withholding permission for ITV satellite channels are exposed to a constant diet to drop the eight hours a week of children’s of American language, references and values, programmes that it now provides? promoting consumerist lifestyles and encouraging However much we share concerns about the rise of obesity and the loss of childhood that obesity, we do not believe that such a move is the so many are currently deploring.

Autumn 2006 Bulletin 3 Editorial Comment

Members of the Board and In the meantime, the new technology is company wants to drop much of what it deems I spent much of the summer transforming not only the way we receive and use unprofitable: religious, children’s and non-news on a review of all aspects of the broadcast media, but also the economic basis regional programmes, for example. ITV, having VLV’s work, outside activities on which they have been built. Although we know already reduced the hours of its children’s and finance. With our new the BBC’s Royal Charter is assured for the next ten programmes, is now seeking to reduce them to Executive Director, Peter years, uncertainty remains about the level of the just two hours at the weekend. Ofcom has so far Blackman, fully involved, we licence-fee settlement. There is also worrying talk refused to allow it to do so, but how much longer are preparing a new three- about the possible resurfacing of one of Ofcom’s will it be able to hold out, if a ban on junk food year business plan. In all of favourite projects, a new Public Service Publisher advertising costs ITV millions in lost advertising this, we have been acutely aware of the rapid (PSP) which would be partly financed out of the revenue? pace of the changes now affecting, and in many BBC’s licence fee income. Until a decision is made, All of which means that the work of VLV in cases, threatening the British tradition of public the BBC faces a period of uncertainty when upholding standards across the board and in service broadcasting. Poll findings show that the planning for the future has to be stalled. representing the interests of listeners, viewers and BBC is still held in high esteem and that most of Among the casualties of the changing ecology users of new media as both citizens and the public is willing to pay a licence fee which are the regulators to whom in the past, credit for consumers is becoming ever more important. The will help it to maintain its standards. But the the quality of programmes was often due. Their current campaign to Save Kids’ TV, (see page 3) is public has much to learn about the new realities, task was made much simpler because of the just one element of that It is an issue on which as my colleagues and I have been finding out. adherence of most broadcasters to the traditions VLV has been the leader for the past twelve years. In just twelve months Whitehaven in Cumbria of public service broadcasting and the existence of In the face of all these extra demands VLV needs will be the first place in the United Kingdom to assured incomes for the BBC and the commercial to increase its resources and efficiency. So we have its analogue television signals switched off. operators. The many hundreds of new channels, were delighted when Melvyn Bragg kindly After that, unless viewers in the area switch to often based overseas, have no concept of those launched our 2006 Appeal on 28 September. To digital, they will not be able to receive television earlier values, are relentlessly competitive and feel enable VLV to continue to promote public service broadcasts over the air at home. However, if they little obligation to adapt their output to the needs in broadcasting, I hope that all our supporters will have a computer linked to their telephone or a of British audiences, including children. respond as generously as they can. new mobile phone, they will be able to receive not On revenues, the current crisis at ITV provides a only all the traditional services but a multitude of powerful example of the painful consequences others ranging from 24 hours news to online which follow the loss of audiences to new services gaming and shopping channels. The implications and the consequent loss of income. Although ITV’s for our traditional broadcasters are immense. public service remit forms part of its licences the

New President for EURALVA VLV Awards for 2006 Jocelyn Hay, VLV chairman, stepped down as President of EURALVA, the European Alliance Your chance to reward the best Radio and of Listeners' & Viewers' Associations, at their annual meeting in London on 4th September. Television programme makers VLV member Professor Vincent Porter was elected in her place. One of the most striking things about VLV hosted the two-day meeting which was VLV’s annual Awards for Excellence in attended by representatives of member Broadcasting is how much the recipients organisations from Canada, Denmark, Germany, value them - because they are chosen by Norway and the UK. A number of European and you, the listeners and viewers who have international policy issues were discussed and enjoyed the programmes selected, and not EURALVA's response to the European by professional peers. Commissions' consultation re revisions to the Television Without Frontiers Directive and new No matter how busy the winners are they always Audio Visual Media Services Directive was agreed. find time to come and collect them in person at the Michael Palin presents Kate Adie with the award for Radio spring conference and to share with VLV members 4’s ‘From Our Own Correspondent’. VLV Responses to Recent Consultations their pleasure and pride in receiving them. Those who attended this year will remember the organisation of the Awards to VLV Board Member, VLV has responded to the following public entertaining presentation by Michael Palin, and the Terry Glover. consultations. Copies of the responses may be delighted reaction from Jeremy Paxman, Kate Adie, Please help us to make the Awards even more seen on VLV’s website: www.vlv.org.uk or are Charles Wheeler, Jon Snow and the other winners. popular and successful this year. It is your unique free to members in return for a large sae. The Awards have kindly been organised by VLV chance, wherever you live, to participate in an • White Paper on the Future of the BBC and Lord members John and Carey Clark for the past four important VLV event and to single out and reward Burns Inquiry - April 06 years and we are extremely grateful for the care the broadcasters and programme-makers whose • Ofcom consultation re food and drink and trouble they have taken to make them such a work you have most enjoyed. Despite the oft- advertising to children - June 06 success. To do so takes hours of behind the scenes heard grumble that ’There is nothing worth • UK Government Consultation on Revisions to the care, preparation and attention, which only shows watching tonight’, it is quite amazing how many Television Without Frontiers Directive - Sep 06 on the day except in the smooth and enjoyable excellent programmes our members do find. VLV is preparing responses to inquiries by Ofcom ceremony that passes all too quickly. We are most So think back over the year and send in your and the BBC Board of Governors into the market grateful to John and Carey, who now in the face nominations for programmes and performers impact assessment of the proposed launch of the of other commitments, are handing over the you have enjoyed in 2006 on the forms enclosed. BBC’s new iPlayer.

4 Bulletin Autumn 2006 Working for Quality and Diversity in Broadcasting Guest Contributor, Professor Christopher Frayling - the relationship of the BBC and the Arts in the UK

Of course – and this, too, needs saying over and • There are also opportunities for the BBC to over again – there is much to praise where the BBC’s support wider access to UK cultural venues, arts activities in the public realm are concerned: the across the UK, through closer working with arts orchestras, the choral work, the support for new organisations and diversifying output. At present, writing and music, and a range of community and the sole coverage of these within mainstream public broadcasting activities such as the Big Screens channels is in the Culture Show’s short segments and its network of learning centres, and mobile units – and occasional outside broadcasts – but there to increase access. The BBC certainly plays an important could be an extension of coverage into special, part in the wider arts development landscape, working more in-depth pieces and series, with appropriate on its own and with others to provide opportunities partnerships to ensure legacy post broadcast. to showcase and develop new talent and profile • In short, the BBC could drive deeper into the artists across its services. It has been particularly living arts, the cultural and creative fabric of successful in helping audiences find routes through England, working with its partners and regional to the arts, discovering their own creativity, providing communities to stimulate and inspire the further platforms for people to generate their own content growth of the arts and creative industries, through the online sites such as Where I live, BBC helping to develop and improve attendance and Arts and Blast sites. participation in the arts. The BBC can also be a gateway for people, a • Finally, it will be terrific if the BBC could develop trusted entry point, helping viewers and listeners to the use of its archive by working in partnership deepen their appreciation of the arts, encouraging with others. The archive can go well beyond the opportunities for formal and informal learning; the educational purposes outlined in the government Guest Contributor, Professor Christopher Frayling, partnership with the Open University on ‘the White Paper to stimulate the growth of is Rector of the Royal College of Art and Chairman Romantics’ series is a recent example with a wealth contemporary culture in the UK, supporting the of Arts Council England. He shares some of his of other examples including the excellent BBC Radio BBC’s wider cultural and creative purposes. thoughts about the relationship of the BBC and Music work Listen Up!, Making Tracks and Interactive Maybe the most effective way of ensuring that the Arts in the UK. Proms and Picture of Britain/Digital Britain support all this will happen, would be to have a formal The last ten years has been a golden age for the services. If only the mainstream schedules contained, statement from the BBC on its responsibilities to the arts in Britain. People tend to look back at the period in their mix of an evening’s viewing, more arts content. arts of this country – a minimum commitment, 1946 -1960 – the period following the original So, what might help bridge-building between the which would survive whichever regime was at the foundation of the Arts Council – with misty-eyed arts and the BBC? top. A commitment to the arts, as part of the public nostalgia, as if that was ‘the golden age’. But the era • Well, perhaps the Charter Review process could service remit. of the Lottery (transforming the arts landscape) and lead to a clear articulation of the BBC’s core of increasing Treasury support has been more than purposes in relation to the arts – especially Music, matched by a flowering of the arts. In the Visual Arts Drama, Literature, Dance and the Visual Arts. Radio 3 Celebrates there have been the Tates, the Baltic, the Young British • The BBC could develop a more coherent Artists, the increasing maturity of the art market in overarching cultural strategy running across all its 60th birthday the UK. In Music, the Sage and the renaissance of genres and networks. Aldeburgh, the renewal of the Royal Opera House, Radio 3, successor to the Third Programme set • Of course, the impact of the BBC on culture is the rise of Youth Music. In Theatre, the new regimes up in 1946, is one of the BBC Services which ‘broad’ and not limited to ‘cultural programmes’. at the National and the RSC, the Donmar phenomenon has continued, despite a few ups and downs, Nevertheless specific attention could be given to and the Arts Council’s ‘theatre review’ which has to fulfil the high aspirations of its founders these cultural sectors within the broader canvas. re-resourced the sector, especially in the regions. and audience. After 60 years it is good that There are countless other examples. I could go on • There could be a clear articulation of arts output we can celebrate the channel which not only and on, and often do. within each individual service licence – for greater commissions more live music than any other The question is: has this golden age been executive and public clarity and accountability. in the world, supports four of the BBC reflected in or stimulated by – or even kept pace Closer planning and partnership nationally and Orchestras and the BBC Singers and so many British composers, plus the annual delight of with – by the BBC? regionally would help to achieve the BBC’s the Proms, the largest and most successful The question is not in my view asked enough, or purposes unlocking financial and human resources music festival in the world. not asked in that way. At first glance, where network from the wider arts and cultural sector, potentially We send our congratulations and good wishes television is concerned the last ten years has been maximising shared cultural investment through to the channel and its Controller, Roger Wright, far from a golden age. It has seen the end of The public arts funding partnered with BBC investment. and were glad to receive the following reply from Late Show – for which Late Review once a week is • The BBC should definitely reflect a greater range him to two recent rumours. There is no truth in the no substitute – the end of Arena and Omnibus as and depth of regional/local arts from within story that Radio 3 is to include pop music in its regular stands, the shunting of much arts programming England in its schedules. Regional arts do not future schedule. Nor in a story that the channel is feature on BBC ONE, TWO, THREE or FOUR to any onto BBC4, the rise in compensation of the Culture to drop its popular 'Choir of the Year' competition. great extent beyond festivals. It is vital that entry Show which is assembled from short segments and We also received an assurance that the drop in points into culture can be placed within regional of Alan Yentob’s Imagine slot. In this area, at least, the bit rate for DAB broadcasts of Radio 3 from arts coverage and reflected on both regional and the balance sheet doesn’t look too good – which is 192 to 60bps will still provide an acceptable national platforms, to engage and stimulate the more than a pity, because the arts have increasingly signal, especially for those on the move. VLV feels widest possible audience. moved to the heart of national life, reflecting more it is important for Radio 3 broadcasts on DTT and and more Britain’s rich and diverse cultural identity, • Network Television BBC output is still largely Satellite to continue to be transmitted at 192 bps and regional identities. The arts have moved centre London-centric. Presentation and content across as many of these will be listened to by music stage. Do the mainstream schedules reflect this? the platforms still also tends to reflect a largely lovers on higher quality receiving systems. Discuss. white middle class profile.

Autumn 2006 Bulletin 5 Consumer Expert Group The switchover from analogue to digital TV Who’s Who in Broadcasting transmission (DSO) will start in 2008 so the planning has been in progress for several years. NEW CEO FOR OFCOM I am the latest VLV representative on the Ed Richards has been more than the present Governors, at between Ministerial Consumer Expert Group that appointed Chief Executive £35,000 and £40,000 for two days a week. monitors DSO and advises on communications. of Ofcom, the Office of Jana Bennett, Director of BBC Television, has Groups representing those with special needs Communications which also been made Director of BBC Vision, the new such as the blind, deaf and elderly are in the was set up by the 2003 BBC multi-media content, commissioning and majority and VLV is one of the few organisations Communications Act to channels group. She has appointed former BBC representing the general consumer. regulate all aspects of radio, Executives, Peter Salmon and Jane Tranter to In the last year the specialist members of the television and tele- key roles within the group. group have prepared two reports. The first was on communications. His salary the special needs of the disabled and elderly in is expected to be more than £400,000 per annum. Anna Carragher has retired as Controller, relation to the equipment provided for DSO. The Currently Chief Operating Officer at Ofcom, and Northern Ireland after 36 years with the BBC. second covered the support the most vulnerable before that Head of the Policy Unit at No.10 Blair Jenkins has resigned after six years as would need during DSO. Downing Street, Mr Richards will take over from Head of News and Current Affairs at BBC Scotland. Since the spring I have taken an interest in the Stephen Carter, who was the first to hold the post. special problems faced by the 20% of the Mr Carter is widely tipped to succeed Charles Allen John Willis has resigned as Director of BBC population who live in flats, hostels or various who recently resigned as Chief Executive of ITV. Factual & Learning. Keith Scholey has been types of residential accommodation. Landlords in appointed Acting Director in his place. the public sector seem to be organised and Michael Grade, Chairman of the BBC Board of upgrading or replacing the aerials and cables. Governors, will become Chairman of the new BBC Michael Wakelin has been appointed BBC Head However in the private sector the situation is Board of Trustees on 1st January 2007. His salary of Religion and Ethics, replacing Alan Bookbinder patchier. Some landlords may go for more will almost double to £140,000 for a four day who has moved to the new BBC College elaborate systems than are needed, encouraged by week. Other members of the Trust will also be paid of Journalism. suppliers, passing the costs on via the service charges. There are different issues for residential care homes and for each type of housing unit. Robert Clark Broadcasting: Serving the Arts - A Visit to the ASA VLV’s Summer Conference On Friday July 14th Jocelyn Hay (Chairman), More than 80 people with a wide range of The fear was whether the commercially-funded Warren Newman and Andrew Taussig (Board Members), Peter Blackman (Executive Director), interests gathered at the Foreign Press broadcasters could continue to create these John Brotherton and John Williams (VLV Members) Association in London for VLV’s summer opportunities in the more competitive digital visited the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) conference on 6 July. Their focus was on how future. at their Holborn headquarters. Welcomed by broadcasting can serve Britain’s uniquely rich Christopher Graham, Director-General, the visitors cultural heritage by extending public awareness Mark Lawson, broadcaster and critic, chaired were treated to a presentation by Clare Forbes, and enjoyment of the arts. the conference. The other speakers were: Director of Communications, followed by a guided The speakers gave several impressive Adam Kemp, BBC Commissioning Editor, Arts, tour of the working areas. There, they were shown examples of how the broadcasters – BBC, ITV, Music, Performance & Religion; Andrew Whyte, facilities for monitoring commercial channels and Channel 4 and Five - are not only providing Director of Communications, Arts Council the ‘hot desk’, the first input point for complaints. access to music, drama and the visual arts on England; Kim Peat, Channel Five Controller, The quality and character of the advertisements television and radio but also, often with support Daytime, Arts & Religion; Jan Younghusband, seen by viewers of commercial channels are for VLV, from the Arts Council, they are creating new Channel 4 Commissioning Editor, History, core concerns. Secondly, the ASA is a reassuringly and exciting opportunities for local groups to Science, Religion and Arts; Jonathan Levy, effective model of industry self-regulation. It is become involved in practical arts projects. Producer, South Bank Show, ITV. backed up, for broadcast platforms, by powers delegated by Ofcom under the 2003 Communications Act). In recent policy debates, at both national and European levels, VLV has found itself a lonely voice, arguing the case for regulation by government, first, to track new platforms, and, secondly, for self- regulation to be subject to stricter tests of effectiveness. The ASA prefers conciliation, where appropriate persuading complainants not to pursue insubstantial cases and encouraging advertisers voluntarily to drop commercials which give prima facie grounds for concern. So a high proportion of complaints are upheld. Although the Authority has a majority of members from outside the industry, its decisions are based on a code formulated by the Committee of Advertising Practice (CAP) which represents mainly commercial companies and the advertising industry itself. The Director-General said the ASA was already accepting complaints about internet advertising. The development followed naturally from its remit to meet public demand in the new media age. Andrew Whyte, Mark Lawson and Adam Kemp taking questions. Andrew Taussig

6 Bulletin Autumn 2006 Working for Quality and Diversity in Broadcasting Letters to the Editor Letters do not necessarily represent the views of the Association and may be shortened for publication. BBC MUSIC POLICY which are not to be found in Digital Terrestrial TV take to protect quality. The mere suggestion that Radio reception, i.e. Freeview. At present there is not a level 4 may not be safe fills us with horror. In days I would like to know why the BBC so steadfastly refuses playing field. Those unable to receive Freeview are dominated by the financial interests of private media to include more music from the pre-pop era. Why is so forced to pay more for their equipment initially and to we regard the danger of the BBC ceasing to champion much pop rubbish played on Radios 1, 2 and 6? Surely a continue to pay additional sums at irregular intervals quality, for whatever reason, a betrayal of trust. little more time could be given to the ever-popular into the future. And there is, of course, the implied I would stress, however, that if one is prepared to hunt genres of Big Band, Swing and the music of the first threat in this arrangement that reception of encrypted part of the 20th century? It is not only the older diligently enough there are still some programmes of channels will be permanently lost if a new card is not imagination and integrity and immense power and generation who enjoy it, but the thousands of young purchased. people who are learning musical instruments or playing influence, one would like to think, such as the series in school orchestras, bands and groups. You only have The proposed BBC/ITV service may or may not earlier this year ‘Facing the Truth’ with Archbishop to look at the programmes of the amateur choirs in change this situation, but not even the DCMS Desmond Tutu. So we take heart. countless towns up and down the country to see how Committee on Analogue Switch-off knows for sure, Giles Heron, Whitby, North Yorks. popular this kind of early 20th century music is – both according to their report. instrumental and vocal. Why doesn’t the BBC reflect Michael Howe, By E-mail BBC & RELIGIOUS BROADCASTS this popularity in its programmes? I have spent nearly £300 on an aerial to receive BBC 4 Ms Duffy (Bulletin Spring 2006) seems to imagine that Ron Savage, Blundell Sands, Liverpool and other digital stations, but because of the Wembley non-religious programmes (reality TV? sport? films?) Radio 3 has carried on many of the Third Programmes’ arch I am unable to receive them. I have been advised I should be enough to satisfy those with a non-religious good practices but one change that has crept in drives will have to subscribe to Sky at a cost of £150 - £250 to lifestance such as Humanism. Does she really think me to distraction and that is the adverts. I know they receive these channels. I find it appalling that the Humanism is so empty? are called trailers but to me they are unnecessary and, general public have to suffer at the expense of a Humanists do not object to religious broadcasting but above all, repetitious. They would drive me to switch football stadium. Why cannot the developers pay for a do object strongly to the bias towards religion on the off, except how else would I get the well-chosen two- transmitter so that we can receive all the stations? I do BBC. Every week Radio 4 alone puts out over three minute essence of the day’s news? not particularly wish to subscribe to Sky – what can the hours of broadcasting specifically for Christians by BBC do? Is there credible evidence that listeners prefer to have Christians about Christianity. (This excludes magazine these interruptions to what they have switched on to Elizabeth Lawrence, London NW11 programmes like 'Sunday'.) Despite constant requests the BBC never gives any time for humanists talking hear? Editor’s note – VLV has been pressing for the about Humanism. The best we get is being asked to Jean Davies, Oxford launch of a free-to-air satellite to help solve the problem that Ms Lawrence and many other comment on religious questions on religious programmes. DIGITAL RECEPTION PROBLEMS viewers face, unable to receive Digital Terrestrial Television until after analogue signals have Yet under the Human Rights Act the BBC, as a public I believe many viewers are unaware of an important been switched off. We understand the body, is barred from discriminating on grounds of 'religion fact when choosing between the different Digital TV Government has commissioned a report on the or belief' (and Humanism undoubtedly counts as a belief). service delivery options. matter shortly to be put out for consultation And under the Communications Act (sn 264), public Many believe that taking Freesat from Sky involves only shortly. service broadcasting is meant to include programmes a one-off payment. One has only to read the terms and about such beliefs - Humanism was actually named by conditions for this service on the freesatfromsky.co.uk VLV APPEAL & PSB the Government in the relevant debate. website to see that this is true for a limited period only. Please find enclosed my cheque in response to your All we are asking for is fair play! Of the mainstream channels, only the BBC transmits appeal. I am very aware of the continuing and ever David Pollock, Trustee, British Humanist unencrypted. i.e.free-to-air. The other mainstream increasing pressure on the idea and principle of public Association, 1 Gower Street, London WC1E 6HD channels are transmitted encrypted, thus requiring the service in broadcasting – and, indeed in all areas of use of an access card as part of the decryption process public life. I am glad to respond urgently. in the receiving equipment. The cost of this initial access card is included in the one-off payment but Joan Darwent, Sheffield Deadline for next issue: when it is changed in the future – and this has already We wish to assure you that we consider that the issues 1st December, 2006 happened in the recent past – a new card has to be of quality broadcasting and funding have never been Write, fax or e-mail your letters to the Editor at: purchased. There are therefore ongoing unquantifiable more important and more under threat. We are most [email protected] costs associated with this means of digital TV delivery appreciative of the care you and others as watchdogs

When purchasing digital digital update equipment look for the logo

SOME OF THE MOST FREQUENTLY • New features such as on-screen TV listings and You can also visit the Department of Trade and ASKED QUESTIONS red-button interactivity which will enable you Industry’s website for more information to do tele-banking and shopping and join in Why is digital switch-over happening? Where else can I get help, especially if gaming, betting and on-screen games. About a quarter of UK households cannot get the I do not have access to the internet? • Access to special services for those with full range of available digital TV services through an Your local electrical retailer should be able to disabilities such as audio description of TV aerial and a fifth of households cannot get Channel advise you about reception or you can contact programmes for those with sight impairment. Five TV through their aerial. These numbers can only Digital UK, the company set up to manage the be increased through the process of digital switch- Will switching to digital mean I get High switch-over process. Their telephone number over. The move will make it fairer for everyone and Definition TV (HDTV)? for enquiries is: 0845 650 50 50. it will also free up analogue spectrum which can No. HDTV is a new technology which will enable Website www.digitaluk.co.uk then be used for other new services such as high- viewers to get higher definition TV pictures, but an Will my video recorder work after definition TV and mobile telephony. Any surplus HD-Ready TV is not necessarily a digital TV. Make switch-over? sure that it carries the ‘digital tick’ logo, if it does frequencies can be sold off. The switch will also help Yes, VHS video recorders will play back tapes as not you may need to get a digital set top box. the UK to continue as a world leader in before and they will be able to record one digital broadcasting and digital technology. I live in a flat and share my aerial with channel at a time. But they will not be able to What are the benefits? others. What do I need to do? record a digital channel if you are watching Digital switch-over will bring: If you share a communal aerial you may need to another at the same time. To do that you will • Extra TV channels adapt this to digital. Your landlord or managing need a digital TV recorder, with two or more • Improved quality of TV pictures and less agent should be aware of this need and be tuners, such as Freeview Playback, interference making plans – ask them for information. Sky+ or ntl: Telewest TVDrive.

Autumn 2006 Bulletin 7 Advertisements Diary Dates Please refer to VLV when responding to advertisements. VLV Ltd cannot accept any liability or complaint in regard to the following offers. The charge for classified advertisements is 30p per word, 20p for Thursday, 2 November members. Please send typed copy with a cheque made payable to VLV Ltd. For display space please VLV’s Annual Conference on contact Linda Forbes on 01474 352835. Children’s Broadcasting: Children’s Television: VLV Gift Membership Where Now? The Royal Society, 6-9 Carlton Give VLV membership as a gift to a friend Single member: £25.00 House Terrace, London SW1 or relative. We will add an appropriate Two at same address: £40.00 Student/Concession: £17.50 9.45am – 5pm greetings card and a FREE copy of the Joint concession: £35.00 Radio or TV User’s Guide worth £5.95. Overseas: £35.00 Tuesday, 28 November VLV’s 23rd Annual Autumn 1000s of books, pamphlets and magazines - Conference: new and out of print - (including extensive stock of back issues of ‘’ and ‘The Listener’). A Changing BBC: THE RADIO LISTENER'S GUIDE 2006 & Accountability & Creativity THE TELEVISION VIEWER'S GUIDE 2006 Overseas House, Park Place, off St James’ Street, London SW1 BROADCASTINGKELLY & MASS COMMUNICATIONS: BOOKS ORDERING DETAILS 10.45am - 3.30pm ● GENERAL The guides cost £5.95 each - Kelly Books, 6 Redlands, (this includes postage and packing). Tuesday, 28 November ● HISTORICAL Tiverton EX16 4DH Please make your cheques payable to VLV Ltd’s 4th AGM ● PROGRAMMES Tel: 01884 256170 Radio Listener's Guide, and send them to: Fax: 01884 252765 Overseas House, Park Place, ● PERSONALITIES Email: [email protected] Radio Listener's Guide, PO Box 888 St James’ Street, London SW1 Plymouth PL8 1YJ 4pm – 5pm Website: www.kellybooks.co.uk

The BBC in London Autumn Competition and Scotland has Journalists are not taught what news is, says Andrew Marr, the BBC’s former Political Editor. a fresh look In an autobiographical survey of the journalist’s trade, he claims that they learn by copying, gradually acquiring a ‘nose’ for news. Two of the BBC’s centres in London and Scotland have been Win a copy of Andrew Marr’s book by answering the following questions: given a new look. Questions: Which Radio 4 programme does he present? and Pacific Quay, the BBC’s new Which tv programme does he present? purpose built headquarters in Glasgow was completed within Replies on a postcard to: Autumn Competition, VLV, 101 King’s Drive, Gravesend, DA12 5BQ. budget and on time for it to be Or by email to: [email protected] by 1st December 2006. The Editor’s decision is final. formally handed over in August. The BBC’s former premises in Queen Margaret Drive, Glasgow NEW SUBSCRIPTION / DONATION / CHANGE OF ADDRESS* were partly designed by the *please delete as appropriate renowned architect Charles Rennie McIntosh in the Art Deco style. VLV subscription - individual £25.00, two at same address £40.00, student/concessionary £17.50, joint concessions £35.00. VLV overseas subscription - individual £35.00, student/concessionary £25.00. Newsletter only subscription (non members) UK The rabbit warren nature of the £30.00, overseas £35.00. Please make cheques payable to VLV Ltd and send to 101 Kings Drive, Gravesend, DA12 5BQ. premises made it extremely difficult PLEASE USE BLOCK CAPITALS to run efficiently, however. The new premises, on the banks of the River Name Clyde will be both more efficient Address and more accessible. The refurbishment of the Post Code: BBC’s flagship Tel Fax: in London is also now almost complete. The project has included e-mail: not only re-furbishing and OR to pay by Credit Card please complete the form below or call 01474 352835 extending Broadcasting House itself Name of Cardholder but also buildings adjacent (last 3 digits of Card type: Mastercard ■ Visa ■ Expiry date ■■ / ■■ Issue No. ■■ CVS ■■■ security code on to it. The result is a better working ■■■■ ■■■■ ■■■■ ■■■■ reverse of card) environment for the BBC and Card No. / / / Amount £ a much more attractive and Signature of Cardholder harmonious look to that end I would like to pay by Bankers' Order ■ Gift Aid ■ please send me a form. of Regent Street.

8 Bulletin Autumn 2006 Voice of the Listener & Viewer Ltd, a private company limited by guarantee, registered no: 4407712