HD FREESAT BOX INFORMATION ABOUT METADATA.

FREESAT HD BOX AND

FREESAT INFORMATION ALTHOUGH ALREADY PUBLIC HAS NOT BEEN DEFINED OR EXPLAINED CLEARLY
BUT WE AT DOMAIN-HOLDINGS WILL TRY AND EXPLAIN FROM PUBLIC KNOWLEDGE WHAT IS EXPECTED
TO HAPPEN IN EARLY 2008.
FREESAT WILL BE CARRIED ON TWO PLATFORMS, YES WE SAID TWO, THIS OF COURSE DOES NOT TAKE
INTO ACCOUNT THE CABLE OR BROADBAND NETWORKS VIA MOBILE PHONES OR COMPUTERS. THE TWO
PLATFORMS KNOWN TO CARRY FREESAT TO BEGIN WITH ARE FREESAT AND SKY. THE TRANSMISSIONS
WILL BE SHARED BY THE TWO PLATFORMS.
THE TWO SETS OF "METADATA" MUST BE CARRIED IN THE SAME TRANSMISSION.
THE NEW FREESAT DATA MUST NOT AFFECT THE MILLIONS OF SKY RECEIVERS ALREADY BEING USED.
BBC RESEARCH AND INOVATION HAVE DESIGNED THE ARCHITECTURE AND SYSTEM SPECIFICATION
SO THAT FREESAT DATA IS EFFECTIVELY INVISIBLE TO NON FREESAT TVS AND SET TOP BOXES.
THIS STATEMENT HAS A RATHER AMBIGUOUS AND UNCLEAR MEANING AND THE PROBABLE CLARITY
MAY COME WHEN DIFFERENT MANUFACTURERS REVEAL THEIR NEW BOXES.
READING DIFFERENT "WELL RESEARCHED PUBLIC DOCUMENTS", IT LOOKS AT FIRST GLANCE THAT
SKY RECEIVERS WILL GET.....read more!

FREESAT SATELLITE BOX MUST COMPLY TO THE FOLLOWING.

FREESAT BOX ES AND RECEIVERS MUST COMPLY TO THE FOLLOWING;

To be compatible with the BBC's HD stream, a set-top box must comply with the following:
It must have an HDTV logo, to show that it has one of two digital connection types, HDMI or DVI, and supports HDCP, the specification used to protect digital content.
It can be demonstrated to decode the BBC's MPEG-4 HD stream.
It decodes both DVB-S and DVB-S2 transmissions.
It can recognise both the current and future values of HD service type used in the UK and the rest of Europe.
As more and more information is released we will update this blog to keep abreast of the contstant changes needed for FREESAT BOXES and RECEIVERS.

BBC HD (HIGH DEFINITION) AND NEXT THE SHV (SUPER HI VISION).

THE BBC ARE NOT ALLOWING THE GRASS TO GROW UNDER THEIR FEET.
Even before we have had a chance to view the BBC ITV HD FREESAT it is being reported the BBC are
already in collaboration with NHK on their SHV system...read more!
BBC and NHK plan to work together to show Ultra-HDTV at the 2012 Olympics. The prospect of viewing in
Super Hi Vision of live pictures of selected sports on large screens at the 2012 London Olympics is very
interesting considering the picture is reportedly 16 times better than HD (high definition).
It may be premature to get excited about SHV as it has taken many years for HD (high Definition) to get
to the viewing stage we have now, so SHV (super hi vision) maybe a few years yet before full feature.

FREESAT HD DIGITAL BOX, FREESAT STANDARD DEFINITION BOX.

FREESAT RECEIVERS OR BOXES ARE EXPECTED TO BE IN TWO VERSIONS.

It is expected that those on a budget
can buy a Freesat box with non HD ability, whereas others can purchase the higher spec. HD Freesat box.
Both boxes will have the expected EPG to select live sport,
national events, stunning natural history, landmark drama, world-class documentaries, and all for free.
The satellite dish size expected to be suitable for Freesat in U.K. can be anything from 45-60cms. dependent
on your U.K. location. Larger dish sizes would be ideal for viewers living in Ireland, Scotland and for some ex-pats
living overseas in Europe and beyond.
It should be noted anyone buying the standard Freesat receiver box can still view High Definition (HD) but the
picture viewed will be downscaled to standard definition using the normal scart lead.
Please also note anyone buying the higher spec HD receiver box can still use their standard definition TV but the
HD picture will be viewed downscaled.
To summarise; the ideal Freesat box would be the HD digital box if your future plans include the purchase of an HD
ready TV set.
Domain-Holdings

PANASONIC PLASMA TV WITH FREESAT HD RECEIVERS BUILT IN TO BE RELEASED 2008.

Panasonic new range of 2008 Plasma TV's with built in FREESAT TV Receivers.

PANASONIC will include a FREESAT TV Digital Box that will be incorporated into Panasonic's new range of Plasma Flat screen's these will be code named PZ81 and its expected to provide a full range of other FREESAT TV enabled TV Sets from this high quality flat screen maker this means there will be no need to buy an official FREESAT LOGO HD Digital Box costing about £180.

All eyes will now be on its acclaimed LCD arm of Panasonic Electronics will follow suit and have FREESAT embedded in these HDTV sets to?

Panasonic will be releasing a 42inch, 50 inch and surprisingly as many in the industry that a 37 inch model would be ditched but that is not the case as the popular 37 inch model will also be included in the PZ81 Range to be released in the summer of 2008.

Best Regards,
Aberdeen Website Design Ltd.

FREESAT SET-TOP-BOXES ARCHITECTURE REVEALED.

Aberdeen Website Design ltd. always bring you the latest and researched updates on FREESAT the new joint tv bouquet from the BBC and ITV.
We at Aberdeen Website Design ltd. would advise everybody to make sure the receiver you buy for your free satellite channel line up is 100% FREESAT compatible.
Public information although released last month has never been openly revealed until now;
The BBC Research & Innovation experts have designed the architecture and system specification of the new FREESAT RECEIVER so that FREESAT data is effectively invisible to non-FREESAT set-top-boxes.
Selected manufacturers are being requested to supply;
FREESAT TV's,
FREESAT recorders,
FREESAT set-top-boxes.
All must pass the product conformance testing to carry the FREESAT LOGO.

HD FROM THE BBC HD AT 28.2 DEGREES EAST.

HD BBC LAST NIGHT TREATED THEIR LUCKY HD VIEWERS TO A PROGRAMME FEAST.
I watched two programmes last night as a matter of reporting on the blog here.
The BBC HD channel last night was unmissable from 10.00pm until midnight GMT time. First
we were treated to the programme "Mountain", with Griff Rhys Jones exploring the mountains
of Britain starting with the breathtaking and the beautiful Highlands of Scotland....how was the picture, the picture was jaw dropping amazing, for want of a better description.
The next programme was "Planet Earth", which has to be the best programme of it's kind ever released for public consumption and can only be described as programming in it's most perfect form.
The BBC HD pictures on this programme would not be out of place being repeated over and over again, the only problem would be shops selling LCD and PLASMA TV would need to evict customers from their shops.

35,000 Ex-Pats on Spains Costas Waiting to Switch to FREESAT TV.

With an estimated 35,000 SKY TV and FREESATFROMSKY Subscribers and Customers many have been swamping their local Satellite installers with requests for more information on FREESAT TV and they expect there may well be over 100,000 in the first year taking up this new FREE HDTV Service when it launches in the Spring of 2008.

Most current users are reporting they would like the ability to record what they want when they want and as all HD DIGITAL BOXES from FREESAT will be supplied with PVR hard drives as standard across the entire FREESAT TV PLATFORM, it seems it will be happy days for FRRESAT TELEVISION Future!

Kind Regards,
Aberdeen Website Design LTD.

FREESAT CHANNELS ON SATELLITE.

Many people ask, "How many channels can you pick up from satellite.
The answer is very simple but it must be one of the worst kept secrets.
There are thousands upon thousands of FREESAT free-to-air channels
on satellites dotted across the Clark Belt (so named after the well known
scientist Arthur C. Clark) 33,000 thousand miles above the equatorial
line in outer space. Arthur C. Clark made possible the idea that if a
satellite could be placed at the 33,000 mile orbit above earth it would
remain in a geostationary position with respect to earth.
These satellites which are all around the earth are from all different
Countries.
When you install a satellite dish with a motor attached you are opening
up a whole new world of FREESAT or Free-To-Air channels that do not
need a subscription of any kind, although in all countries you can buy
subscriptions which usually consist of Films, Sport, etc, in fact some
subscription services ask you to pay again for programmes you have
already paid for with your Television Licence.
BBC and ITV are opening up a whole new world of Television for everyone
with their innovative FREESAT venture and the promise of 80 channels
with at least 8 HD initially is only the tip of the iceberg as far as FREESAT
is concerned. Anybody deciding to buy the FREESAT box will be able to
fill the box up to it's capacity(possibly unlimited?) with Free-to-air
channels simply by adding a motor (cost approx. £60) to the dish and
by using the same single cable from the receiver a simple press of a
button can get you thousands of choices for Free thanks to FREESAT.

Aberdeen Website Design LTD.

FREESAT CHANNELS ON SATELLITE.

Many people ask, "How many channels can you pick up from satellite.
The answer is very simple but it must be one of the worst kept secrets.
There are thousands upon thousands of FREESAT free-to-air channels
on satellites dotted across the Clark Belt (so named after the well known
scientist Arthur C. Clark) 33,000 thousand miles above the equatorial
line in outer space. Arthur C. Clark made possible the idea that if a
satellite could be placed at the 33,000 mile orbit above earth it would
remain in a geostationary position with respect to earth.
These satellites which are all around the earth are from all different
Countries.
When you install a satellite dish with a motor attached you are opening
up a whole new world of FREESAT or Free-To-Air channels that do not
need a subscription of any kind, although in all countries you can buy
subscriptions which usually consist of Films, Sport, etc, in fact some
subscription services ask you to pay again for programmes you have
already paid for with your Television Licence.
BBC and ITV are opening up a whole new world of Television for everyone
with their innovative FREESAT venture and the promise of 80 channels
with at least 8 HD initially is only the tip of the iceberg as far as FREESAT
is concerned. Anybody deciding to buy the FREESAT box will be able to
fill the box up to it's capacity(possibly unlimited?) with Free-to-air
channels simply by adding a motor (cost approx. £60) to the dish and
by using the same single cable from the receiver a simple press of a
button can get you thousands of choices for Free thanks to FREESAT.

FORTEC STAR SATELLITE RECEIVERS ARE VERY COMPREHENSIVE.

Fortec Star reported in April 2007 they were launching the latest HD Set Top Box retailing at £150
within the next month. They also reported they expected the price to fall nearing the same time next year
which is April 2008.
As good as their word out came HD boxes which they have diligently updated on a regular basis since then.
Fortec Star are not hanging about either as their idea of "Household Automation", has been explained as
quote;
Giving aging population and disabled persons ability to turn power sources around the home on and off
(ie; lighting, heaters, etc ). We think a forward thinking company with all kinds of satellite receivers from
the bargain basement receiver available from Maplin at £24-99 for a FREESAT receiver (non HD) to the
FREESAT HD receiver or box complete with card slots and cam slots( the cam slot is for a card which would
allow viewing of subscription TV (not Sky ), for example Sport). These satellite receivers can again be
purchased from Maplin for £149-99

FREESAT TV FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS.

ABERDEEN WEBSITE DESIGN - Has just released probally the only FREESAT TV FAQ's to date it has been put together to both explain and help the understanding of what FREESAT TV is all about.

If you have any questions about FREESAT TV FROM THE BBC then please do so in this Free Blogger from Google.com

To view the FREESAT TV FAQ's just click on the underline.

Best Regards,
Aberdeen Website Design LTD.

BBC and ITV LEAD THE WAY TO FREE TV!

It has been reported by the French press straight from the French Parliament that all terrestrial French television has to be unscrambled for all to view for free.
We ask, does this mean that they may be looking for space on a satellite?

BBC TRUST FREESAT CONCLUSION.

AS REPORTED BY THE BBC TRUST IN APRIL 2007.

licence fee payers and with our view of the public value in approving the “Freesat”
proposition.
Our consultation has confirmed that these views are widely held. Only 38% of respondents
considered the current access to the BBC’s digital services acceptable. 93% thought that the
BBC should be taking action to improve access in the lead up to digital switchover. This
figure was 100% for Wales and Northern Ireland where access through ‘Freeview’ is known
to be more limited.
(ii) Assessment of the best interests of licence fee payers and the public interestCurrently, licence fee payers in geographical areas where access to Freeview is not possible
will, until digital switchover in their area, only be able to access BBC services by taking up
“Freesat from Sky” (or an offering of any other entrant to the market) or subscription
services. This is in the context where no commercial provider would be subject to the same
express Public Interest duties that apply to the BBC with oversight by the Trust (with our
own express public interest duties). This isan important issue and the public consultation
responses support our view that there is a significant level of public concern over this. As
part of the Trust’s and the BBC’spublic duties, it is incumbent on us to address this situation
if there is an appropriate way to do so. Our conclusion is that the “Freesat” proposition is
an appropriate way to take action over this matter of public interest.
In our view failure to address this position, which potentially affects a significant proportion
of licence fee payers, would be inconsistent with the BBC's and the Trust's public interest
duties, particularly to promote the Public Purposes set out in the Charter, which require
facilitating access to BBC services. We also consider it is in the interests of licence fee
payers and part of the public interest that “Freesat” is made available as soon as possible.
As part of considering the public value of the proposition, which is dealt with in section 6.5
below, we have concluded that it is not acceptable for a significant proportion of licence fee
payers to be limited to a single subscription-free access routeto BBC services provided by a
commercial third party (BSkyB), over which the BBC has no influence, until as late as 2012.
BSkyB has expressed concern that, in their view, we have created the impression in our
consultation that “Freesat from Sky” ‘remains available to customers only by the grace and
favour of Sky and that at some point the service might cease to be free’. They make the
point that any DVB-compliant services broadcast via Astra and Eutelsat can be viewed via
Sky’s set top boxes. Whilst we accept that it is technically possible to receive channels
broadcast unencrypted via satellite using Sky set top boxes, we do not believe that this
option is, or would be, widely used, and we do not consider it to be a substitute for a
properly supported proposition complete with an Electronic Programme Guide to make
access to services more user friendly. The Consumer Expert Group on Digital Switchover
confirms this, stating that “close attention will be paid to usability aspects of Freesat-
compliant products with the opportunity to encourage manufacturers to follow best practice
in remote control design, labelling and on-screen navigation. Some of these features are
expected to be mandatory for a product to qualify for the Freesat trademark licence.” 

BBC TRUST FREESAT CONCLUSION.

AS REPORTED BY THE BBC TRUST IN APRIL 2007.

BSkyB is under no regulatory obligation to provide subscription-free access and we think it
reasonable to conclude that it does so as a commercial choice. So there is no guarantee
that there would remain a subscription-free route to access BBC services in the future. As
with any commercial proposition, BSkyB could at any point choose to withdraw or change
the terms of this service subject to normal notice provisions. Whilst the BBC would have
no say in such a decision, the potential impact in terms of access to its services would be
significant.
As part of considering the public value of the proposition, our view is that it would not be in
the public interest for licence fee payers to be reliant only on commercial provider routes
over which the BBC has no influence as a subscription-free means of access to BBC services.
There may also be additional benefits to consumers through the introduction of an
additional provider and hence greater competition in the market. This would lead to
increased choice for consumers and potentially other benefits, such as improved product
offerings to customers in the short and longer term. This effect will be particularly strong in
those areas where there is currently only a single, or limited, supplier of digital retail TV
services and those outside of the current Freeview footprint, where the current level of
competition may be lower.
95% of respondents thought that licence fee payers should have a choice of subscription-free
means of access to digital services, with several expressing specific concerns about
dependency on Sky.
Overall conclusions on the interests of licence fee payersWe consider that the BBC's main stated objectives for the proposition are consistent with
the best interests of licence fee payers and the Public Interest duties of the BBC and the
Trust. In relation to the second stated objective, to provide a subscription-free route to HDoutput in perpetuity, given that there will be a PVT assessment of the BBC’s HD service
proposals, the Trust has only considered whether it is in the public interest (and in the
interests of licence fee payers) to have an in-built capability to carry HD output. Our view is
that this allows for appropriate future development which is in the public interest because it
protects against “Freesat” being superseded by technology as well as providing incentives for
manufacturers to produce the required set top box equipment. The response to our
consultation has reinforced this view. 91% of respondents considered it important that theproposition should be future-proofed. One respondent commented “I think the set top
boxes should be capable of receiving both standards [SD & HD] so that a new box is not
necessary when high definition broadcast becomes standard”.
In reaching the above conclusions we have taken into account generally the wider matters
set out in these conclusions particularly those explored in the section on public value and
those in the section on market impact and we have also had regard to the Trust's duties
under the Charter and the Agreement (particularly the duties in Article 23).

BBC TRUST DECIDE FREESAT FUTURE.

AS REPORTED BY THE BBC TRUST IN APRIL 2007.

6.5 What public value the new proposition might create

As noted above, we did not consider that a full PVT was necessary for our evaluation of this
proposition. We did, however, consider the public value that the “Freesat” proposal might
create and applied the principles underlying the treatment of services as we considered
appropriate in this case. The analysis set out below considers specific matters we consider
relevant to public value and our conclusion on the question of public value.
We considered the proposition against the following key measures of public value: reach;
impact; quality and distinctiveness; and value for money. We considered these to be the
appropriate aspects of public value to explore and evaluate.
(i) ReachIn the context of “Freesat” as a mechanism to allow subscription-free access to the BBC'sServices, we considered reach to mean the extent to which the proposals would facilitate or
increase that access. The market research suggests that whilst “Freesat” would have
national appeal, it would be particularly effective in increasingreach to the BBC’s full range
of services in areas currently unable to receive Freeview. Of the 7 million homes yet to
move from analogue to digital reception, almost half fall outside the area where Freeview
coverage is available12. As with other satellite-based services, coverage for the free satellite
proposition would be much greater than is the case for Freeview, opening up new
alternatives to those licence fee payers unable to receive Freeview.
This evidence is reinforced by the response to our consultation. Whilst 86% thought the
proposals would be valuable to all licence fee payers, an even higher proportion – 93% -
considered them valuable to licence fee payers unable to access Freeview. One respondent
commented “PSB Freesat will enable licence fee payers outside Freeview coverage areas to
switch to digital TV without having to wait for DTT coverage to expand. They will be able
to enjoy the same benefits now as those living in Freeview areas”.
We found that these views were consistent with the direct experiences of the BBC
Governors referred to earlier through their contacts with licencefee payers at public
meetings and engagement with audiences through the Broadcasting Councils and the English
National Forum.
(ii) ImpactIn assessing impact we have had regard to clause 25(2)(a) of the Agreement which defines
impact as “the extent to which the change is likely to affect relevant issues and others.”
Based on our consideration of how the proposition would be in the best interests of licence
fee payers and create public value, our viewis that the proposition would be valued by
licence fee paying users. The response to our consultation has firmly endorsed this view.
We consider that an additional means of access to 6 of the BBC’s 8 TV channels, 3 of its 11network radio services and the BBCi service, along with a substantial range of other digital
services from other broadcasters will have asignificant positive impact on licence fee payers
12 Ibid note 5, section 4.2.9.

BBC TRUST FREESAT CONCLUSION.

AS REPORTED BY THE BBC TRUST IN APRIL 2007.

 particularly for those who are unable to receive the Freeview service and within thatnumber those who do not wish to use “Freesat from Sky” or who do not want, or cannot
afford to use, subscription based services now or in the future. “Freesat” is expected to
offer up to 300 TV and Radio channels (compared with around 75 that are currently
available through Freeview). BSkyB nevertheless comment in their response that the Trust’sview here is subjective. It is appropriate for the Trust to form its own view on the public
value of the proposition and we remain of the view that the positive impact of the proposals
is clear, and consider that the overwhelmingly positive response to our consultation across
all the questions relating to public value validates this view.
(iii) Quality and distinctivenessWe also support the view that the proposition will be high quality and distinctive.
Whilst it is difficult to make a definitive assessment of quality at such an early stage, we are
satisfied that in terms of content the availability of all BBC services and the intention to carry
other public service channels provides sufficient assurance as to content quality. We are
also satisfied that the joint venture structure and the proposed remit for the joint venture
provide sufficient assurance in terms of controls over the set top box specifications, the
electronic programme guide and the marketing arrangements.
Some responses questioned the distinctiveness of the “Freesat” proposition. However, the
Trust recognises that the proposition will introduce competition in the market for free
satellite television services and will therefore offer an alternative choice of provider for
consumers. Furthermore, the “Freesat” service is guaranteed to remain subscription free.
(iv) Cost and value for moneyFinally, we have taken into consideration the cost and value for money to the BBC of
supporting the new proposition. The likely potential cost to the BBC of participation in the
Joint Venture is modest – very substantially below the levels at which we would need to give
our authority to BBC management to invest and comparable with what the BBC contributes
to the Freeview joint venture and associated technical infrastructure. BBC management’s
intention is that these costs should be shared amongst partners to the “Freesat” joint
venture and this would reduce further the call on licence fee funding. We also consider that,
taking into account the modest costs involved compared to the public value of facilitating
and increasing access to subscription-free BBC services, particularly in areas where licence
fee payers cannot currently access Freeview, the proposition represents value for money.
Some respondents felt unable to comment adequately on the Trust’s value for money
assessment because the Trust did not publish any details of the cost to the BBC of itsparticipation. We have revisited the decision not to publish details of the cost and weremain satisfied that this decision was correct. The figures which the Trust has seen for
maximum cost to the BBC of participation cover the scenario where no joint venture
partners participate and the BBC bears the entire cost. Revealing this figure would in effect
reveal the budget for the joint venture, enabling others in the market to determine what
individual commercial parties to the joint venture would contribute. We have had direct

BBC TRUST DECIDE FREESAT FUTURE.

AS REPORTED BY THE BBC TRUST IN APRIL 2007.

representations from potential joint venture partners. This information has the potential to
be market sensitive, and is also commercially sensitive to the BBC and joint venture partners
since negotiations amongst potential joint venture partners are still in progress. Taking
account of these considerations, the Trust is satisfied that its description of the scale of the
BBC’s investment as modest and substantially below the levels requiring Trust approval is as
far as it can go in disclosing the cost of the potential joint venture.
Any steps taken by the BBC at this point to improve access and promote the take-up of
digital services will also have a beneficial impact at the point of Digital Switchover, reducing
any resources that may be required then tosupport those who will require assistance tocontinue viewing the BBC’s services. Although the take-up of digital TV is expected to
continue to grow, the market alone may be unable to deliver universal uptake. It is possible,
therefore, that without coordinated efforts, such as this proposition, penetration will fall
short of levels needed for analogue switch-off.
Overall conclusion on public valueWe have reviewed the material available to us, including the responses to the consultation,
which we consider provides a sound evidential basis for our conclusions on public value. We
have also taken into account generally the wider matters set out in these provisional
conclusions particularly in section 1 above addressing the best interests of licence fee payers.
Having considered all these matters and the individual elements identified above, applying the
Trust's duties under the Charter and the Agreement (particularly the duties in Article 23)
we have concluded there is significant public value in the “Freesat” proposition for licence
fee payers.

6.6. How the proposition fits with the BBC’s public service
remit

We considered the proposal in the context of the BBC’s public service remit and of the
specific objectives set for BBC management by the Board of Governors which remain in
place. The objectives set in relation to driving digital take up in 2006/7 were to:
Ensure that BBC management prepares for digital switchover and drives the market for free-
to-air digital television, digital radio and new media whilst continuing to serve the needs of
the analogue-only audience by:
a.Raising awareness of how the BBC’s digital services add value to the overall portfolio;
b.Improving their availability; and
c.Working in partnership with the commercial sector to drive take-up.
The Charter and the Agreement set out a number of public service duties. In the Charter
these include the Public Purpose for the BBC of “promoting other purposes, helping to
deliver to the public the benefit of emerging communications technologies and services and,

BBC TRUST FREESAT CONCLUSION.

AS REPORTED BY THE BBC TRUST IN APRIL 2007.

in addition, taking a leading role in the switchover to digital television“13. In the Agreement
it is stated that the “BBC must do all that is reasonably practicable to ensure that viewers,
listeners and other users (as the case may be) are able to access the UK Public Services that
are intended for them”14.
We asked, as part of our consultation, whether the proposals were consistent with the
public purposes of the BBC. 93% of respondents thought that they were.
We have concluded that the BBC's two main stated objectives are consistent both with the
overall objectives set by the Governors for BBC management and with the BBC’s Public
Purposes, particularly those set out above. We are also satisfied that the proposition will
contribute to other BBC objectives. In particular, increasing the choices open to licence fee
payers for accessing the full range of BBC services will lead to an increase in the reach and
accessibility of the BBC, particularly in those areas unable to receive Freeview. We have
concluded that the proposition put to us is consistent with the BBC’s public service remit
and that it will make a positive contribution in relation to the specific objectives set by the
Governors (which as noted remain in place) and to the BBC’s Public Purposes.
In reaching the above conclusions we have also taken into account generally the wider
matters set out in these provisional conclusions and we have also had regard to the Trust's
duties under the Charter and the Agreement (particularly the duties in Article 23).

6.7 The competitive impact of the proposals on the wider
market

The propositionhas been assessed against the current approvals framework and
requirements of the existing Fair Trading regime. The “Freesat” proposition does not
specifically address whether the requirements currently expressed in the draft Competitive
Impact Policy Statement are met (the draft competitive impact policy paper has not been
formally adopted by the Trust pending consultation and was not in place at the time that the
“Freesat” proposition was put forward). Taking these matters into account, and our viewthat it is integral to the public value of the proposition that, if approved, it is implemented
within an urgent timescale, our view is that we should not attempt to apply the draft
Competitive Impact Policy Statement in the specific circumstances in which we have
considered the “Freesat” proposition. We have, however, taken into account the market
impact of the proposition as set out below and we specifically invited consultation responses
on this issue, which we have taken into account in our final decision. The Trust also
received privileged legal advice on the “Freesat” proposition's compliance with competition
law (including state aid law). We concluded on the basis of this advice that the “Freesat”
proposition is compliant.
We have also concluded that in order to ensure that the proposition remains compliant withcompetition law and state aid requirements, we should impose as a condition of our
approval a requirement that the funding arrangements for the participation of other

13 Article 4(f)
14 Clause 12(1)

BBC TRUST FREESAT CONCLUSION.

AS REPORTED BY THE BBC TRUST IN APRIL 2007.

broadcasters in “Freesat” are such that it can be demonstrated that those other
broadcasters are not being subsidised by the licence fee, and that there should be an
appropriate separation between the operation of the “Freesat” proposition and the existing
Freeview proposition.
It is important to make clear that although our market review work does not have to
include the same scope or level of detail as a full Market Impact Assessment15 we have
concluded that the level of the review was appropriate when the scale of the BBC’s
proposed participation was taken into account.
(i) The Governance Unit report updated by the Trust UnitWe were provided with a report based on work conducted during 2006 under the direction
of the BBC Governors to assess the competitive impact of the proposition before it was put
forward to the Secretary of State for consideration. The Governors had asked for an
assessment of the impact of the new proposal on the market and the Governance Unit16had, in the light of BBC management’s own assessment, carried out a review of the market
implications of the proposition.
The Trust Unit considered that the report and its market analysis provided a proper basis
for the Trust's consideration of the proposition and should be put before the Trust with
amendments only to correct typographical errors and to update the statistics used. We
decided that it was appropriate to use this updated report, which we refer to as the Trust
Unit report, as part of our consideration of the proposition particularly given that it was
important to the public value of the proposition to consider it without further delay. The
report considered those specific markets which might be directly affected by the proposition
and assessed the impact on competition in those markets, as well as any ancillary markets
that may be affected and wider economic effects. The full report was published alongside
our consultation document. The key conclusions are set out here.
The Trust Unit report advised us that the proposal might encourage some consumers to
switch from their existing digital providers (or in the case of analogue households, choose
PSB “Freesat” over an alternative digital offering). The market most likely to be affected was
that for non-subscription digital providers (there are two significant competitors in this
market – Freeview and “Freesat from Sky”), although there could also be some effects onsubscription services.
However, the report concluded that the introduction of this additional non-subscription
offer would not be likely to have an adverse effect on competition in these markets, and that
in terms of consumer welfare the effects would be beneficial. The review noted that from
the consumer perspective a new entrant would introduce an element of choice in terms of
subscription-free access to digital TV services in those areas outside Freeview coverage, and
enhance choice and competition in other areas with consequential benefits to consumers.
The report noted there would be some impact on the future revenues of the existing
15 Carried out by Ofcom when the Trust is conducting a full Public Value Test
16 The unit, separate from BBC management and accountable directly to the Governors, established to provide
independent advice to the BBC Governors.

BBC TRUST FREESAT CONCLUSION.

AS REPORTED BY THE BBC TRUST IN APRIL 2007.

suppliers in the market but, taking account of the scale of the new proposal, concluded that
these effects on competitors would be small.
The report also considered the potential impact on wider markets, including TV channels
and the supply of hardware. It concluded that the characteristics of the proposal meant that
there was unlikely to be a major impact on the overall distribution of advertising revenues
between channels (as the majority of channels that would be available on the new platform
also played-out on the other main digital TV retail services) and that the proposal might
benefit some manufacturing and service industries by expanding demand in these markets.
Overall, the review suggested that there may be some marginal positive impact on wider
markets and that the proposition was likely to make a contribution to the growth of digital
television take-up and its associated economic benefits.
(ii) The Fathom Partners' reportThe original Governance Unit report was forwarded to DCMS in support of the BBC’s
application in June 2006 (and a revised Governance Unit report which we published as part
of our consultation was provided on 18 November 200617) seeking the Secretary of State’sapproval to enter into a joint venture arrangement. DCMS commissioned Fathom Partners
to comment on the report. Whilst Fathom agreed with the Governance Unit view that theproposition would increase competition withconsequent benefits for consumers, it
contained a number of conclusions which differed from the Governance Unit's views.
Although the Fathom Partners report was not commissioned by the Governors or the Trust
Unit, we considered it was appropriate that we took the report into account in considering
the proposition. The full Fathom Partners report was published as part of our consultation.
The key conclusions are set out here.
•Fathom considered that the Governance Unit had not taken proper account of the
effect on the proposition that future decisions on the provision of HD services could
have. Fathom reviewed two separate scenarios – one without a strong HD channel
line up and one with a strong HD channel line up.
•Without a strong HD channel line up they concluded that the proposition would
have limited appeal (0.5m customers) and may fail because of insufficient interest
from potential manufacturers of the set top boxes. Fathom Partners also
considered that this same scenario could have a negative impact on BSkyB’s
subscription services as well as its free services because in their view the launch of
PSB “Freesat” would alert BSkyB's paying customers to consider a free-satellite
alternative potentially over time prompting a body of BSkyB customers to move from
BSkyB subscription services to “Freesat from Sky”, or to lapse their payingsubscription.
•With a strong HD channel line up they concluded that the proposition could be fairly
successful (2.5m customers). They asserted that the Governance Unit had not
17 We published both the 18 November 2006 Governance Unit report and also the later Trust Unit report that
amended and updated it.

BBC TRUST FREESAT CONCLUSION.

AS REPORTED BY THE BBC TRUST IN APRIL 2007.

considered the market impact of this scenario. Their view was that this scenario
would exert significant negative impact on current and prospective participants
across the TV market, including potential new entrants.
Fathom also reported their findings on impact on competition and Digital Britain (these
findings applied to both the above scenarios).
•They agreed with the Governance Unit that the proposition would increase
competition, with consequent benefits for consumers (e.g. lower prices, increased
promotion of free satellite services). However, their view was that because the
proposition would be publicly supported, the usual presumption that the benefits of
competition for consumers outweigh the market impact on producers would not
apply.
•Finally, Fathom noted the Governance Unit’s comments about the possible
contribution of “Freesat” to switchover, and the benefits associated with “Digital
Britain”. They took the view that the proposition would not contribute significantly
to digital take-up or deliver benefits associated with “Digital Britain”.
(iii) The Trust commissioned independent reportWe commissioned an independent review of both the Governance Unit and Fathom reports
from Zoltan Biro, Director, Frontier Economics. A copy of his review was published as part
of our consultation. The key conclusions are set out here.
•On the basis of the information contained in the Governance Unit report and theFathom reports, Frontier Economics concluded that the market impact of the launch
of "Freesat" should be expected to generate static welfare improvements (i.e. in
terms of allocative and productive efficiency)as a result of an increase in competition
in digital TV services.
•In Dr Biro's view, the issue requiring further consideration by the Trust when
considering the overall welfare implications of the launch of "Freesat" (i.e. in terms of
static and dynamic efficiency combined) is whether the anticipated scale of impact on
the revenues of Sky, NTL and potential newentrants would be expected to have a
detrimental impact on their incentives to invest in product and process innovations.
We therefore asked the Trust Unit to further refine the estimate of the potential impact on
Sky (as the main market participant likely to suffer a loss to revenues) in terms of whether
the anticipated impact on revenues could have adetrimental impact on its incentive to investin product and process innovations. This is discussed further below.
(iv) Consultation responses
We included a series of questions on competitive impact in our consultation with the aim of
eliciting views on whether we had identified the relevant markets likely to be affected, what

BBC TRUST FREESAT CONCLUSION.

AS REPORTED BY THE BBC TRUST IN APRIL 2007.

the effect on consumers and on other participants in the market might be, and whether the
proposals went far enough to minimise the impact of the proposition on the market.
Overall, 93% of respondents considered that we had correctly identified the markets likely
to be affected, although taking just the responses from organisations this figure fell to 69%.
One respondent considered the precise distribution mechanism (i.e. which satellite
“Freesat” uses) relevant. A small number of others suggested that not all future markets had
been identified.
The market review notes the difficulty of accurately defining future markets and impacts in
sectors where technology is fast-changing and future consumer behaviour is highly
unpredictable. The review does attempt to define such markets where possible, in particular
identifying the major telcos/ISPs as potential future competitors, but the analysis suggests
that at present it is reasonable to assume that such other products may not form part of the
relevant market at this stage.
In terms of the distribution mechanism it should be noted that “Freesat” is intended to offer
consumers an improved viewer experience basedlargely around free to view content that isalready in existence, not to create a new satellite broadcasting system. Therefore any large
scale acquisition of satellite transponder capacity for the broadcast of channels and services
is not within the remit of the proposal.
The outcome in terms of the competitive effect for consumers was clear-cut. 92% overall
(and 93% of organisations responding) agreed that launching “Freesat” would benefit
consumers by increasing choice and introducingcompetition in the subscription-free satellite
TV market. Comments included “Yes as Sky is the only company offering such a service at
present. Equipment can be costly [to] purchase through them. Some competition will helpbring prices down” and “It will definitely make the market known and accessible.”
BSkyB welcomed the new competition and thought increased choice for consumers was
positive, but took issue with the fact that, in its view, the Trust appeared to accept without
reservation that it was appropriate “for state-owned entities to be used as instruments of
industrial or competition policy.” Virgin Media made a similar point that they have a “natural
bias against public intervention.”
In addressing these points we have considered the stated objectives of the proposition and
how the proposition fits with the BBC’s public service remit. The public policy issue that the
BBC is seeking to address through this proposal is inadequate access to the BBC’s digital
services in the lead up to switchover. The Trust is satisfied that this is an issue that the BBC
should address. It recognises that the proposals might also benefit competition and
consumers but, whilst welcoming this, the Trust is clear that this is not the main driving
force for the intervention.
BSkyB raised a concern in their response that in marketing “Freesat” the BBC, which is not
subject to Ofcom’s Cross Promotion Code, might not promote digital services on a
platform-neutral basis. The BBC Trust is currently consulting on a draft Competitive Impact
Code on Cross and Digital TV Promotion, which will establish key principles for the cross-

BBC TRUST FREESAT CONCLUSION.

AS REPORTED BY THE BBC TRUST IN APRIL 2007.

promotion of all BBC services. In formulating its codes the Trust is required to have regard
to competition codes issued by Ofcom. The consultation is open until 22 May 2007.
The consultation has reinforced our view that the launch of "Freesat" will not deter
significant levels of investment and innovation or result in the market exit of existing market
participants. Overall, 90% of respondents (and 90% of organisations responding) supported
our assessment.
Finally, 89% overall (and 88% of responses from organisations) said that the proposals went
far enough to minimise the impact of the proposition on the market. Comments included:
“Generally yes although some consideration will need to be given to influencing manufacture
and installation in the interests of consumers.”
“Yes. Many companies existing and future will benefit from the supply of the equipment
necessary.”
“Yes and distances the BBC somewhat which is more suitable for a public body.”
Our view on the competitive impactHaving taken into account all of the material before us we reached the following views.
(a) Effect of strong HD channel line upAs set out above in the section describing the "Freesat" proposal, it is important to bear in
mind the limits to what is being evaluated in considering this proposal. The proposition does
not include approval for a service licence to make available BBC HD output through
“Freesat.” Any such approval would be subject to a PVT which would include consideration
of a MIA prepared by Ofcom. We therefore consider that it is not necessary for the Trust
to give significant weight to the potential market impact with a strong HD channel line up.
However, the Trust has appropriately taken into account, when assessing the proposition's
public value, the future proofing in the proposition by building in the capability to provide
BBC HD output and the fact that this would entail enabling access to HD content if other
broadcasters decide to make unencrypted HD output available.
In the risks section below we have considered Fathom's conclusion that without a strong
HD channel line up the proposition would have limited appeal (0.5m customers) and may
fail.
(b) Competitive restraint on competing servicesWe considered the Fathom Partners' conclusion that the proposition without a strong HD
channel line up could have a negative impact on Sky’s subscription services as well as its freeservices.

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AS DESCRIBED AND REPORTED BY THE BBC TRUST IN APRIL 2007.

The Trust Unit review recognises that the proposition may exercise a competitive restraint
on competing services (primarily free satellite services but also, to a lesser extent,
subscription services) but concludes that it ishighly unlikely to deter significant levels of
investment or to result in market exit.
As noted in Section 5.7(iii) above, we asked for some further work to be done by the Trust
Unit on the likely impact on Sky. None of that work suggested that the launch of "Freesat"
would deter significant levels of investment and innovation or result in the market exit of
existing market participants, given the likely relative scale of “Freesat” in relation to the
overall market.
We included a specific question in our consultation on thispoint. We asked: ‘Do you agree
with the Trust’s conclusion that whilst launching “Freesat” will affect other participants in
the market, it is not likely to lead to exit from the market of existing participants or to
create a barrier to future innovation? (Any figures for the likely effect on other participants’
revenues would be particularly welcomed).’ We emphasised in our consultation that wewould welcome the views of industry participants on this issue, in particular those of Sky,
NTL and potential entrants. We assured those considering responding that any figures they
were willing to provide would be held in confidence.
No quantitative data as to thelikely effect on other participants’ revenues was received by
the Trust during the consultation, either from the affected participants themselves or from
other respondents. 90% of respondents to the consultation (and 90% of organisations
responding) supported our assessment that “Freesat” would not have a significant effect on
other participants’ revenues.
In these circumstances, the Trust confirms its view that the launch of "Freesat" will not detersignificant levels of investment and innovation or result in the market exit of existing market
participants.
(c) Market ImpactThe Trust's consideration of the market impact of the proposition should focus primarily on
the effect on consumers. The Trust Unit review concluded that for consumers the
introduction of the proposal would not have a negative effect on competition in the market.
Indeed competition was likely to be strengthened by the introduction of PSB “Freesat”, as it
provided an alternative supplier of digital TV retail offering to almost all households in the
UK, where a proportion of those households could currently opt for one provider only.
Further, the Trust Unit noted that the impact of competition would be particularly strong in
those areas outside of the current Freeview footprint. The Fathom report also considered
that the proposition would increase competition, with consequent benefits for consumers
(e.g. lower prices, increased promotion of free satellite services). Our view is that the
proposition would introduce a new entrant to a market where there is currently a single
supplier, creating beneficial effects (in terms of choice, increased promotion and potential
price competition) for consumers. Our view is that these beneficial effects for consumers
would not be diminished because the new entrant was publicly supported (and it is relevant
to note that the proposition is to establish a joint venture which the BBC hopes other 

BBC TRUST FREESAT CONCLUSION.

AS REPORTED BY THE BBC TRUST IN APRIL 2007.

broadcasters will wish to join. As set out above, the response to the consultation adds
considerable weight to this view.
We also noted that Fathom and the Trust Unit agreed that there would be benefits for
customers through the introduction of greater product choice, increased promotion of free
satellite services, and lower prices.
(d) Contribution to "Digital Britain"
We considered the research conducted by BBC management and the direct experience of
both Governors and Trust Members in their dealings with licence fee payers. It was clear tous that current limited access to BBC digital services was an issue of great concern to
licence fee payers, particularly those unable to receive Freeview. We have good grounds for
the view that many such people would take up a non-subscription offer if it was available
(experience in those areas that are covered by Freeview bears this out, as does the
consultation finding that 86% of respondents believe that the proposals are valuable to alllicence fee payers). We considered that thiswould lead both to higher take-up, and earlier
take-up of digital services. The matters set out in the section above dealing with the best
interests of licence fee payers are also of relevance to our view.

7 Risk – both financial and reputational –
arising from the proposition

BBC management made available to us a detailed risk assessment. We were satisfied that
this work identified the relevant risks and that BBC management had devised appropriate
means for managing and mitigating the risks identified. We were satisfied that the overall
risk profile, both in financial and reputational terms for the BBC, was acceptable.
We have taken into account that there is no guarantee that the proposition will be
successful and that this can be affected by matters such as those identified by Fathom
Partners if availability of HD output is not approved. We consider, however, that this risk
must be balanced against the considerable public value we have identified, which has been
further reinforced through the consultation process, and the relatively low cost of the
proposition. This is in the context of the potential detrimental effect on public value whichwould result from further time being taken to commence work on the initial stages of the
proposition. In our view, these matters provide strong justifications for approving the
proposition while taking account of this potential risk. 

BBC TRUST FREESAT CONCLUSION.

AS REPORTED BY THE BBC TRUST IN APRIL 2007.

The Trust has considered the likely benefits to the licence fee payer, the public value created
and the potential market impact. Having regard to the Trust's duties under the Charter and
the Agreement (particularly the duties in Article 23) and such general guidance concerning
the management of the affairs of public bodies which we consider relevant and appropriate,
our conclusion is that we should approve the proposition that the BBC invests in a joint
venture to offer a national satellite based free-to-view digital service. We consider this to be
in the best interests of licence fee payers.
We have considered whether the Trust should attach any conditions to its approval for the
proposals. In our consultation we invited views on two conditions, and also asked
respondents whether there were other conditions that the Trust should impose.
We have concluded that in order to ensure that the proposition is compliant withcompetition law and state aid requirements, we should impose as condition of our approval:
•A requirement that the funding arrangements for the participation of other
broadcasters in “Freesat” are such that it can be demonstrated that those other
broadcasters are not being subsidised by the licence fee.
•A requirement that the BBC should keep its interaction with Freeview operationally
separate from its involvement with “Freesat” to minimise any potential effect oncompetitionThe Trust has also concluded that two further conditions should apply:
•The BBC, through its role in the Joint Venture, must retain sufficient control over the
decisions taken by the Joint Venture to ensure that the BBC’s public service
objectives are not undermined.
•The BBC, through its role in the Joint Venture, should ensure that there is always an
ability to access “Freesat” on a subscription-free basis
In addition to these conditions of approval, the Trust considers it important that in
implementing the “Freesat” proposal the BBC Executive is mindful of the following points,
which the Trust consider to be important to the success of the venture.
•Ensuring that arrangements to secure thenecessary quality and technical standards of
the receivers and Electronic Programme Guide required to access “Freesat” are put
in place
•Taking all reasonable steps to ensure that “Freesat” is able to co-exist with other
digital television platforms without impairing their technical operations
There have been some detailed responses about how the requirement for separation
between “Freesat” and Freeview will work in light of any legitimate contact between the two
ventures, for instance, in the context of Digital Switchover. A body of technical matters has


also been raised in the consultation responses. The Trust considers that in implementing the
proposition the BBC Executive should take these into account as appropriate, where
respondents have not requested that their submissions be kept confidential.
The Trust will write to the BBC Executive setting out the terms of its approval.
BBC Trust, 27 April 2007 

BBC FREESAT DECIDED BY THE BBC TRUST.

AS REPORTED BY THE BBC TRUST IN APRIL 2007.

Definitions/Glossary of terms

Agreement See "Framework Agreement"
BBC Executive BBC Executive Board. The BBC Executive is formally
constituted under Article 7 of the Charter and is responsible
for delivering the BBC’s services in line with the priorities set
by the BBC Trust. It is responsible for all aspects of
operational management of the BBC.
BBC Governance UnitThe independent body that provided advice to the former
BBC Governors. The Governance Unit has been superseded
by the BBC Trust Unit.
BBC Governors The former Board of Governors, superseded by the BBC
Trust under the new Charter.
BBC Management Part of the BBC Executive.
BBC Trust The BBC Trust is formally constituted under Article 7 of the
Charter. It is the guardian of the licence fee revenue and thepublic interest in the BBC. It has ultimate responsibility,
subject to the terms of the Charter and the Framework
Agreement, for the BBC's stewardship of licence fee revenue
and other resources; for upholding the interests of licence fee
payers and the public interest generally in the BBC; and for
securing the effective promotion of the BBC's Public
Purposes.
BBC Trust Unit The Trust Unit provides the BBC Trust (i.e. the trustees)
with independent and objective advice. The Trust Unitadvises the trustees on the conduct of their duties and
supports their work in the following key areas: Performance;
Finance, Economics and Strategy; Audiences; Governance &
Accountability; and Nations. 

BBC TRUST CONCLUSION ON FREESAT.

AS REPORTED BY THE BBC TRUST IN APRIL 2007.

Charter The new Royal Charter granted to the BBC on 19 September
2006, which took effect on 1 January 2007 (subject only to
some very limited transitional provisions which continue to
apply after that date).
The Charter sets out the Public Purposes of the BBC and
guarantees its editorial independence. It prescribes the
constitution of the BBC, the relationship between the Trust
and the Executive Board, and the duties and functions of both
bodies.
DCMS Department of Culture, Media and Sport
Digital Switchover The progressive replacement of the analogue broadcasting of
television services within the UK with digital broadcasting of
those services. This is scheduled to take place from 2008
until the end of 2012 on a region by region basis commencing
with Border in 2008.
DTT Digital Terrestrial Television, often known as 'Freeview'. The
broadcast of digital television channels received via existing
rooftop aerials (rather than by satellite).
EPG Electronic Programming Guide
Framework Agreement The Framework Agreement complements the Charter (see
above). It goes into more detail on many of the subjectsmentioned in the Charter and also covers such things as the
BBC's regulatory obligations and funding arrangements.
The Framework Agreement was made between the BBC and
the Secretary of State for Culture Media and Sport, and
approved after a debate in Parliament in July 2006.
“Freesat” Free-to-view satellite proposition, offered on the basis of a
one-off payment with no ongoing subscription costs.
Freeview The supply of Digital Terrestrial Television channels via
existing rooftop aerials.
HD High Definition television output.
ISP Internet Service Provider 

BBC TRUST CONCLUSION ON FREESAT TV.

AS REPORTED BY THE BBC TRUST IN APRIL 2007.

MIA Market Impact Assessment. This is provided by Ofcom,
overseen by a joint steering group on which the BBC Trust
and Ofcom are equally represented, and forms part of the
Public Value Test.
Non-service activity Activities of the BBC that do not have the nature of a serviceOfcom Office of Communications. Ofcom is the independent
regulator and competition authority for the UK
communications industries, with responsibilities across
television, radio, telecommunications and wireless
communications services.
PSB Public Service Broadcasting
Public Purposes The public purposes of the BBC set out at article 4 of the
Charter.
PVR Personal Video Recorder
PVT Public Value Test, this is the means by which any significant
proposal for change to the BBC's UK public services aresubject to full and public scrutiny.
SD Standard Definition television output
Service Any activity which is, orought to be, covered by a service
licence.
Service licence This is a licence issued by the Trust under article 24(2)(c) of
the Charter. Determining what activities should be subject
to a service licence is the responsibility of the Trust.
STB Set Top BoxSwitchover date The date by which Digital Switchover will take place;
currently scheduled for 31 December 2012.


Appendix 1


“Freesat” Consultation:
Analysis of responses from individuals and
organisations

27 April 2007

Contents


Page
Introduction 3
Breakdown of Respondents 4
Results 5
Conclusions 31
Appendix A – Consultation Methodology 33
Appendix B – Raw data 35 

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AS REPORTED BY THE BBC TRUST IN APRIL 2007.

Introduction
The BBC Trust considered the BBC Executive’s proposals to establish a joint venture that
will manage and support a national satellite based free-to-view digital service (referred to as
“Freesat”) at its meeting on 21 February 2007. The Trust provisionally concluded that it
should approve the proposals and give clearance for the BBC to proceed with “Freesat”.
The Trust decided that it should consult on its provisional conclusion and provided the
supporting documentation for this purpose. The consultation was conducted between 27
February 2007 and 27 March 2007.
This document, produced by the Trust Unit, presents the results of the consultation. The
results are analysed from both a quantitative and qualitative perspective.
In addition the Trust has published the texts of responses received from organisations at
www.bbc.co.uk/bbctrust /consult/closed_consultations/freesat.html

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AS REPORTED BY THE BBC TRUST IN APRIL 2007.

Breakdown of Respondents
Overall
The BBC Trust received over 700 responses in total. Of these, 674 responded to the
consultation questions in sufficient detail to be included in the following analysis.
By Nation
Of the 674 responses 488 were from England, 6 were from Northern Ireland, 57 fromScotland, 33 from Wales, 1 non-UK and 89 of unknown location.

Map of the UK showing England at 72%, Scotland at 8%, Wales at 5% and Northern Ireland at 1%.By Representation
Of the 674 responses 569 were from individuals, 24 were from organisations and 81 did not
specify. The Trust received responses from the following organisations:
•The Audience Councils for England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales
•Avanti Communications
•BSkyB
•Channel 5
•Consumer Expert Group on Digital Switchover
•Confederation of Aerial Industries Ltd
•Fortec Star
•Intellect
•Registered Digital Installer Licensing Body (RDI LB)
•Strategy and Technology Ltd
•Virgin Media
•Voice of the Listener and Viewer (VLV)
Several other major stakeholders have responded in confidence.

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AS REPORTED BY THE BBC TRUST IN APRIL 2007.

ResultsThis section looks in detail at the 674 consultation responses, question by question. For
questions 1 – 11 there is quantitative analysis giving an overall picture of the responses, as
well as drawing out any interesting variations by region and representation. This analysis is
followed by a representative sample of the detailed comments. For instance, if 70% ofrespondents answered ‘yes’ and 30% answered ‘no’ to a given question then the number of
quotes for each point of view will reflect this. Similarly, as 569 responses were fromindividuals and 24 were from organisations the balance of the quotes reflects this.
Questions 11 and 12 do not lend themselves to quantitative analysis as they encourage
respondents to give suggestions, further thoughts, and information. Instead a representative
sample of comments from both individuals and organisations is included.18Question 1(a) – Is current access to the BBC's digital services acceptable?
Of the 562 responses to question 1(a), 62% consider current access to be unacceptable,
while 38% consider it to be acceptable.

Pie chart showing breakdown of responses to the question "is current access acceptable?". 38% said "Yes" and 62% said "No".When breaking the results down further it becomes clear that this issue is particularlyrelevant in Northern Ireland, Wales and Scotland, where digital coverage is not as strong as
across the UK as a whole. These three regions all polled higher than average, with 80%, 74%
and 67% respectively believing current access to be unacceptable, compared to the average
of 62%.
518 Trustees weregiven access to all the consultation responses in full. 

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Bar graph showing the following number of respondent who said that current access is not acceptable:
Northern Ireland:80%; Wales: 74%; Scotland: 67%; Overall: 62%; England: 62%; No location: 57%.Sample of comments from those who considered access unacceptable“Access to digital services is often only available via a cable or satellite provider. This is the
case where I live and I do not like having to pay extra to receive a public service.”
“From a licence fee payers view point - unacceptable at the moment. From a technical
executive standpoint in the broadcast industry - a fairly good job has been done so far -
given the technical constraints of terrestrial transmission.”
“No the current digital services aren't acceptable. Freeview coverage is still too patchy and
signal strength/quality is poor in a lot of areas.”
“Current access to the BBC's digital services is not acceptable because to receive digital
services in areas where Freeview is unavailable (e.g. costal areas) or where cable is
unavailable or service quality is unacceptable, the user is restricted to the services offered
through the Sky monopoly.”
“Access to digital services only becomes acceptable when everyone who can currently
access analogue is able to access digital, which I don't think is the case currently. This is
especially important in this situation, where the changeover isn't optional for the viewer.”
“The BBC's current digital service is not available to a large number of rural viewers in
particular, due to the terrain blocking the line of sight signal. Even when the signal strength is
increased this situation will remain.”
Sample of comments from those who considered access acceptable“Access to current services is acceptable (speaking for my area)”
“The current freeview option seems more than adequate access to the BBC's digital
services. DAB radio is also covered, thus the only potential area to be opened up is that of
internet TV.” 

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“Currently acceptable. I would not be happy to be required to buy further equipment if it
meant the set-top-box that I have now become redundant due to a satellite service.”
“The BBC has done a brilliant job giving access to digital channels and the range of channels
available is excellent. In fact, by far the best available on Freeview”
Question 1(b) – Should the BBC be taking action to improve access to its
digital services in the lead up to digital switchover?
Of the 466 responses to question 1(b), 93% consider that the BBC should be taking action
to improve access to digital services, while only 7% do not.

Pie Chart showing responses to the question "Should the BBC be taking action to improve access? 93% said "Yes" and 7% said "No".
Again, when we break the results down further we can see that this is especially important
to Licence Fee payers in Northern Ireland and Wales, where all those who responded want
the BBC to improve access to digital services. 

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Bar Graph showing the following pecentages that answered that the BBC should take action to improve access. Northern Ireland: 100%; Wales: 100%; England: 93%; Scotland:93%; Overall: 93%; No location:86%.Sample of comments from those who think the BBCshould improve access
“I think the BBC has genuinely making their besteffort to provide access to digital services,
but there is more to be done. It is important that the BBC continue to ensure wider access
to digital services. This is particularly important in the run up to digital switchover to ensure
that there is universal access to these services when analogue switch-off happens.”
“Current access could be improved as the current freeview service is “patchy” in places a
boosted signal and other methods of delivery would be useful.”
“I am concerned that the 'digital divide' shows that those of a low socio-economic
background from a deprived area, and particularly rural areas are still not switching to digital
- more research should be done into why this is the case. Action should definitely be takento improve understanding and take-up”
“In a competitive market the BBC can not sit back while the technology continues to steam
ahead. The BBC is doing a good job at present but need to continue to invest and be a lead
in this arena.”
“Yes, more needs to be done to improve knowledge of the switch over, and aid those that
can't afford to change”
“Yes, this should be its highest priority”
“I would value the ability to receive BBC HD content without a Sky subscription.”
“The BBC should make availability of its digital services much more widely available through
the use of free-to-air satellite, along with making Freeview more attractive by expanding the
services available on it (i.e. improve BBCi to offer the same range of additions as with
satellite, and the introduction of HD-TV)” 

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AS DESCRIBED BY THE BBC TRUST IN APRIL 2007.

“With the introduction of the 'Freesat' proposals yes. The BBC should continue with its
High Definition trial and should start a scheduled HD satellite service as soon as it is

practically possible. HD is the next logical step in the technological advancement of TV
broadcasting. Had the BBC not progressed broadcasting we would still have 405 lines B&WTV and the Home Service.”
Sample of comments from those who think the BBCshould not
improve access
“I personally believe that the current access levels are sufficient and would question, at this
stage, what value an additional means of receiving would bring?”
Question 2 – Should licence fee payers have a choice of subscription-free
means of access to digital services?
Of the 628 responses to question 2, 95% consider that licence fee payers should have a
choice of subscription-free means of access to digital services, while 5% do not.

Pie chart shoing the percentages responding to the question "Should licence fee payers have a choice?". 95% said "Yes" and 5% said "No".Again the response is especially strong from Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland; areas
with lower than average Freeview coverage. The evidence suggests that a choice in these
nations would be welcome, with 100% of respondents in favour of a choice of means of
access, compared to the overall average of 95%. 

BBC TRUST FREESAT CONCLUSION.

AS DESCRIBED BY THE BBC TRUST IN APRIL 2007.

Percentages by country of those responding to the proposition "Licence fee payers should have a choice". Wales: 100%; Scotland: 100%; Northern Ireland: 100%; England: 95%; Overall: 95%; No location:87%.Sample of comments from those who believe Licence Fee payers should have a
choice
“Of course. Subscription-free should also mean no need to buy smart-cards or any other
means by which start-up revenues are generated.”
“Yes - of course they should. Terrestrial, satellite and broadband (IPTV) should all be made
available.”
“Yes, if possible. It is fairly annoying that the licence fee is funding services which I cannot
receive, although I appreciate it is a small proportion of the fee.”
“Yes this is very important ... particularly to keep the existing trust in broadcasters such as
yourselves”
“Yes. Sky's monopoly represents very poor value for money.”
“yes, and the free licence age could be lowered from 75 to 65 in graduated steps if
necessary, to show that the BBC, is doing it's bit ,to help pensioners have a better quality of
life, and be able to enjoy ,what after all, has the potential to be ,one of the finest services inthe world.”
“Yes. The existing freesat is dependent on the goodwill of Mr Murdoch - and that may not
last. It is not commercially prudent to be beholding to Sky, who have their own agenda
which may be at odds with the interests of the BBC and licence payers.”
“Yes; more use should be made of other media, e.g. broadband internet (I accept that thereshould be some mechanism limiting access to licence fee payers). The BBC should also
consider the possibility of licence fee payers to access and watch TV listings they have
missed on-line (similar to the "listen again" feature employed for radio broadcasts)”

BBC TRUST FREESAT CONCLUSION.

AS REPORTED BY THE BBC TRUST IN APRIL 2007.

“Yes, they should have a full choice: Free sat, Free Terrestrial (Freeview), free cable,
Internet”
Sample of comments from those who believe Licence Fee payers should nothave a choice
“No, it is unnecessary, terrestrial is sufficient as it provides the fullest coverage of the British
Isles. The cost to the BBC of additional access methods detracts directly from program
production.”
Question 3(a) – Are the BBC's “Freesat” proposals likely to be valuable and
attractive to all licence fee payers?
Of the 539 responses to question 3(a), 86% consider that the proposals are likely to benefit
all licence fee payers, while 14% do not.

Pie chart showing percentages that answered the question "Are the proposals valuable to all licence fee payers?". 86% said "Yes" and 14% said "No".Sample of comments from those who believe the proposals will be valuable to
all Licence Fee payers
“The value to those unable to receive Freeview, is the ability to receive the digital channels.
The value to those able to receive Freeview, is the ability to receive HDTV channels”
“Yes - especially if it offers an alternate route to HD services, outside of the terrestrial
London trials.”
“Yes, this will give more access to a wider range of programming.”
“The Freesat proposal has the possibility to become an extremely valuable service to all
license payers if, as seems likely, there is no provision for an HD service to offered on
Freeview.” 

BBC TRUST FREESAT CONCLUSION.

AS REPORTED IN APRIL 2007.

“The proposals are attractive to all really...but just hurry up so that we can all benefit fully
from having access to Freeview”
“Yes - any free service is attractive to anyone on a fixed or low income...”
“Yes, with one important caveat mentioned in your document. I think it is essential that at
least one high-definition channel from the BBC be included at launch. This will provide a
clear alternative to any available subscription-free service, and is in the best tradition of
public service broadcasting.”
“This will probably be the best way to receive HD services.”
Sample of comments from those who believe the proposals will not be valuable
to all Licence Fee payers
“I would think that for current licence fee payers there will be little interest in Freesat, I canonly see it as an option to receiving digital through your normal aerial and so why would it
be an attractive service. The only issue would be how may licence fee payers are unable to
receive freeview, does this justify a new freesat service is it more cost effective than enabling
those currently not able to receive freeview than to provide a free sat service”
“The reach of the BBC Freesat service would have an identical footprint (in relation to theUK) to Sky’s satellite platform (including in relation to Freesat from Sky)…subscription-free
access to BBC services is already available via Freesat from Sky”
Question 3(b) – Are the BBC's “Freesat” proposals likely to be valuable and
attractive to licence fee payers who cannot currently receive Freeview?
Of the 538 responses to question 3(b), 93% consider that the proposals are likely to be
valuable and attractive to licence fee payers who cannot currently access Freeview, while
only 7% do not.

BBC TRUST DECIDE FREESAT FUTURE.

AS REPORTED BY THE BBC TRUST IN APRIL 2007.

Pie chart showing that 93% of respondents answered "Yes" and 7% answered "No" to the proposition "Are the proposals valuable to licence fee payers who cannot access Freeview?"Again we can see that this is of particular significance in Northern Ireland, Scotland and
Wales, with higher than average responses in favour of 100%, 98% and 96% respectively.

The proposal is valuable to Licence Fee payerswho cannot access Freeview50%
60%
70%
80%
90%
100%
NorthernIrelandScotlandWalesEnglandOverallNo location
Sample of comments from those who believe the proposals will13
be valuable to
those Licence Fee payers who cannot currently access Freeview
“It would be valuable to those withpoor reception and no reception.”
“PSB Freesat will enable licence fee payers outside Freeview coverage areas to switch to
digital TV without having to wait for DTT coverage to expand. They will be able to enjoy the
same benefits now as those living in Freeview areas. Without it, they pay the same licence

Breakdown by location of those agreeing that: "The proposal is valuable to licence fee payers who cannot access Freeview". Northern Irelan: 100%; Scotland: 98%; Wales:96%; England:94%; Overall: 93%; No location: 84%.
fee, but without digital channels. The BSkyB offering is confusing because of the proliferation
of unavailable subscription channels which cannot be removed from their EPG and does not
allow non-subscription PVR use.”
“Those unable to receive Freeview will find this an attractive solution to the Sky option.”
“I think it will be only those who cannot receive Freeview. But it does depend upon the free
package on offer.”
“We recognise that because Freeview is currently unavailable to over one quarter ofhouseholds, for many people the only digital option they have is Sky. A Freesat offering
would provide a valuable alternative route to digital for people who are unwilling for
whatever reason to take up Sky’s subscription or “Freesat from Sky” offerings.”
“It is worthwhile to offer the same freeview channels to those who cannot receive freeviewby whatever means necessary, however I would not like to see a massive increase in satellite
dishes that would result if more material was made available through freesat than through
freeview.”
“I receive Freeview and value the additional programmes available. Licence fee payers who
can not receive Freeview would find the alternative Freesat valuable.”
“Yes - as it would give me coverage when freeview is lost during high pressure in summer.”
“PSB Freesat will enable licence fee payers outside Freeview coverage areas to switch to
digital TV without having to wait for DTT coverage to expand. They will be able to enjoy the
same benefits now as those living in Freeview areas. Without it, they pay the same licence
fee, but without digital channels. The BSkyB offering is confusing because of the proliferation
of unavailable subscription channels which cannot be removed from their EPG and does not
allow non-subscription PVR use.”
Sample of comments from those who believe the proposals will not be valuable
to those Licence Fee payers who cannot currently access Freeview
“The BBC "Freesat" proposals do not offer anything substantially different to services
available elsewhere, e.g. "Freesat from Sky" and "Freeview".”
Question 4 – Should the BBC seek to future-proof the "Freesat" proposition by
offering a range of set-top boxes so that users can choose either standard
definition (the standard that BBC channels are currently broadcast in) or a box
that would be capable of receiving high definition broadcasts in the future?
Of the 587 responses to question 4, 91% consider that the BBC should seek to future-proof
the ‘Freesat’ proposition, while only 9% do not.

BBC TRUST FREESAT CONCLUSION.

AS REPORTED BY THE BBC TRUST IN APRIL 2007.

"Should the "Freesat" proposal be future proof? 91% said "Yes" and 9% said "No".Sample of comments from those people who believe the proposition should be
future-proof
“Yes most definitely, High Definition should be a top priority.”
“High def is preferable since most TVs are now being built to accommodate this. Mine
already does although I do not use it due to the extra Sky HD costs”
“…it is in the best interests of the consumer that all free to air programming is provided
with the latest available technological enhancements (HDTV is the new “colour” TV and all
consumers should have equal access to it.”
“I think the set-top boxes should be capable of receiving both standards so that a new box is
not necessary when high definition broadcast become the standard.”
“The future is now, high definition is already available and the sales of HD TV sets show how
much people want it.”
“Yes - make software downloadable”
“Yes, it should offer a choice as it is wrong to assume that everybody will have the means or
the need to buy a HD TV to go with the set top box if it is only available in HD”
“Without a doubt, otherwise in 10 years time they will be obsolete and we will have to go
through the same process again”
“It would be best to make all Freesat boxes HD. This reduces consumer confusion, advances
the prospects for HD, avoids premature redundancy of newly purchased equipment, and
does not excessively increase the cost. Importantly it also allows SD channels to use MPEG4,
allowing more room for future expansion of services.”

BBC FREESAT FUTURE DECIDED BY THE BBC TRUST.

AS REPORTED BY THE BBC TRUST IN APRIL 2007.

“Yes, furthermore the technology is now available to the BBC to deliver Freesat in IPTV
format with a satellite return path, facilitating a far wider range of interactive services thatn
are currently available in other European satellite TV offerings.”
Sample of comments from those people who believe the proposition should
not be future-proof
“If I can pick up your freesat on my existing sat box, I personally would not be bothered
about HD. The existing digital picture is more than ample for me. If people want HD they
should have to pay the extra for it.”
Question 5 – Do you agree with the Trust's conclusion that the BBC's
“Freesat” proposals are consistent with the BBC's Public Purposes because
they will improve access to its digital services?
Of the 617 responses to question 5, 93% consider that the proposal is consistent with the
BBC’s Public Purposes, while only 7% do not.

"Is the proposal consistent with the BBC's Public Purposes?" 93% said "yes" and 7% said "No".Sample of comments from respondents who believe that the proposal isconsistent with the BBC’s Public Purposes
“Freesat is in line with the licence remit, the system helps to provide Digital and HDservices”
“I agree, digital services will be required by all when analogue transmissions are turned off
and I believe that a mixture of digital service options should be available at a range of price
points. From a basic low cost service that freeview currently offers, to a low cost enhanced
services option (freesat) to the medium cost and premium services offered by sky and Virgin
Media.” 

BBC TRUST DECIDES FREESAT FUTURE.

AS REPORTED BY THE BBC TRUST IN APRIL 2007.

“I agree that these proposals are consistent with the BBC's Public Purposes. They will
increase the coverage of Digital services and will provide a service to licence fee payers that
do not have access to them currently.”
“Yes. The BBC's proposal is essential if it is to provide a service to all of the population
following the analogue switch off. It would be inconsistent if one had to pay a licence fee to
the BBC and then deal with a commercial organisation before receiving any service.”
“The RDI LB endorses any actions promoting access to the BBC's digital services, insofar as
extending the platforms on which these servicescan be viewed would appear to be entirely
consistent with its [the BBC's] remit.”
“Absolutely yes.
Again, beyond improving access to HD, etc. services for the UK mainland, in the CI region it
appears to be our ONLY hope of access to ANY license fee paid digital PSB services at all!”
“Yes. Freesat is an essential development as long as digital signals cannot be strengthened in
other ways. It will also help begin making HD content more widespread.”
“I think the BBC Trust is completely correct in their conclusion that Freesat is part of the
BBC's mandate to provide public digital services. Freesat represents another channel for
people to use, that is free (outside of the TV Licence) and offers choice. The BBC could also
harness the power of Freesat (and Freeview) to use peoples existing Broadband connections
so that feedback from set top boxes or Integrated Digital TV's can be sent direct to the
programme makers, especially good for panel shows requiring public voting, or precise
viewing numbers (for advertisers).”
“I agree 100%. Public Service Broadcasting is one of the gems in British society. We should
guard it against unfair competition and seek to maintain it and its very high standards.”
Sample of comments from respondents who believe that the proposal is notconsistent with the BBC’s Public Purposes
“No, at best Freesat will only duplicate some of the terrestrial coverage. The extra cost is a
waste for the minimal benefit to fringe areas. The licence fee should be used for program
production.”
Question 6 – Has the Trust correctly identified those markets that may be
affected by the launch of “Freesat”?
Of the 463 responses to question 6, 93% consider that the Trust has correctly identified
those markets that may be affected by the launch of ‘Freesat’, while 7% do not.



"Has the Trust correctly identified the markets that may be affected?" 93% said "Yes" and 7% said "No".Organisations were the exception , with 31%believing that the correct markets had not
been identified, compared to the average of 7%. Among the markets suggested as missing
from the Trust’s analysis were distribution methods and the likely future shape of the HD
market (specifically a Freeview HD offering)

Those reponding that markets had not been correctly identified consisted of, organisations (31%), other (11%), Overall(7%) andSelf (5%).Sample of comments from respondents who believe that the correct markets
have been identified
“Yes indeed. In fact it is about time that DSAT services become competitively recognised as
a true public resource, as they are through most European countries, and not an exclusive
resource incorrectly perceived to be "owned and controlled" by a single privately owned,
subscription TV, service provider as they have become in the UK. 

BBC FREESAT DECIDED BY BBC TRUST.

AS REPORTED BY THE BBC TRUST IN APRIL 2007.

PSB Freesat can only correct this misconception and improve the currently lacking
competition on DSAT services.”
“The basics are if you can’t get freeview already then you may receive this option. So I wouldsay the nail was hit on the head.”
“There is currently a monopoly - BSkyB - the Trust could target low income consumers.”
“I believe you have, and I feel that the BBC has a remit to broadcast its services to a wide a
range of people as possible and if Freesat meets that need then it should be done.
Commercial channels have no problem with launching new services that affect its rivals.”
“Given that there is very little (perceivable) competition in the television broadcast market, I
welcome anything that will have a positive impact on that market. The dominance of BSkyB
and to a lesser extent NTL/Virgin Media is something that the BBC would do well toinfluence”
“As far as I can tell, but I was brought up to regard competition as a health option.”
“Except for the European coverage I think it has.”
“I think it helps these markets as it gets a better understanding to those reluctant to go
digital, and may convince them to improve their services.”
“Yes, it should be remembered that originally the UK had two satellite providers Sky &
British satellite broadcasting, Freesat would be bringing balance back to the market.”
Sample of comments from respondents who believe that the correct markets
have not been identified
“Mainly, but they are forgetting the growing number of viewers with cheap equipment to
watch FTA satellite. They also pay Licence Fee but are confronted with a new rise in costs.”
“The markets not mentioned are the distribution mechanisms. The choice of which satelliteoperator’s capacity Freesat may use will have a dramatic impact on the future proofing of the
Freesat service.”
“The analysis is reasonable. I think that it ignores the potential effect of additional services
(not regular PSB) joining Freesat after launch. An HD offering in Freesat might displace the
provision of an HD offering on Freeview. This would be a negative outcome, but not so
negative as a scenario where BSkyB controlled all distribution of digital TV.”
“The total market size for set top boxes will increase with the take up of digital however the
mix between different manufactures could change.”
Question 7 – Do you agree with the Trust's conclusion that launching the
"Freesat" proposition will have a beneficial effect for consumers by increasing