MTV Networks has applied for two channel licences to broadcast via digital terrestrial in France, according to C21 Media.

The applications were among a total of 35 received by regulatory body the CSA last week. The broadcaster hopes to be a "legitimate player" in the French DTT market but a sticking point is a current law which forbids US companies from controlling terrestrial channels in the country.

"Effectively, according to article 40 of the law, non EEC capitals can't have more than 20% of a French terrestrial channel," said the CSA's DTT executive Philippe Levrier.

MTV's two proposed channels include a French version of Nickelodeon and 'MTV Extra,' which would feature "100% local content, promoting new talent and French music."

Thierry Cammas, head of MTV Networks France, told the website: "MTV has been in France for 10 years now, and as a localised channel for the past five years. Our contribution to the French music industry may still be modest but does exist, and we do contribute to French music exposure on TV."

The CSA is due to examine each of the applicantions in detail towards the end of April.