The launch date for Channel 4's national DAB multiplex has been pushed back again.

John McCann, chief executive of UTV - which owns 10% of multiplex operator 4Digital Group - said at a financial results presentation that the launch could now be as late as November or December.

Under the terms of the group's licence it is due to start broadcasting in July, and Ofcom said it had not agreed any change.

However, McCann said there had been "slippage" in the timetable and 4Digital was "in discussions with the regulator". He put the delay down to transmission arrangements.

A broadcast network has to be built around the country and, though 4Digital has said Arqiva will do the work, contracts have yet to be signed, according to Broadcast.

The 4Digital Group said: "As reported in the press before Christmas, the channel has been in constant dialogue with Ofcom, which is aware we will be in a position to launch around early autumn."