The government is to double the power of the signal from eight transmitters, in a move to encourage the takeup of digital terrestrial television.



Culture secretary Chris Smith said: "I do not want to see the progress of digital television hampered by a problem of poor coverage if it can be addressed.

"I want to see digital television continue to forge ahead and good coverage and reception are a vital part of this."

Trade and industry secretary Stephen Byers added: "Digital television combined with a phone line can give everyone access to the internet from their living room.

"This plan to boost the reception of digital terrestrial television is a key step in avoiding a digital divide."

The eight transmitters in question are Crystal Palace (South London), Sutton Coldfield (Midlands), Mendip (West England, Oxford), Emley Moor (West Yorkshire), Bilsdale (North Yorkshire), Winter Hill (Lancashire) and Black Hill (Glasgow).