Ofcom has lifted regulations that banned pay TV channels from being carried on digital terrestrial TV multiplexes B, C and D.

"Ofcom believes that the current restriction on pay TV channels is no longer a matter requiring regulatory intervention and that finding the right balance between pay and free-to-air services on the DTT platform can be better left to the market," explained the regulator in a written statement.

However, regulations mandating that the public service broadcasting channels (BBC, ITV, Channel 4, Five, S4C and Public Teletext) be free to air remain in effect.

Multiplex B is currently operated by BBC Free to View Ltd, while C and D are operated by National Grid Wireless.