Expressions of interest for regional TV in Wgtn.

MINISTRY FOR CULTURE AND HERITAGE
For immediate release
31 October 2002

Ministry calls for expressions of interest for regional TV in Wellington

Ministry for Culture and Heritage Chief Executive Martin Matthews today announced new licensing plans for regional television in Wellington.

The existing license holders of Wellington TV, Channel 7 Television Limited, will cease transmission as from today.

In his statement, Mr Matthews said, “A non-commercial broadcasting frequency is a precious public resource. We have initiated a new license process to determine which broadcaster can best deliver on the Government’s non-commercial broadcasting objectives for the people of Wellington.”

“We will shortly invite interested broadcasters to submit their proposals for the new channel. These applications will be considered on their individual merits to ensure the best possible programming mix. Emphasis will be on local Wellington and New Zealand content. We expect that Wellington viewers can look forward to a rich diversity of programmes.”

Mr Matthews said he hoped that the license process will be completed by Christmas 2003. The process is co-ordinated by the Ministry for Culture and Heritage with support from the Ministry of Economic Development.

-ENDS–

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