BBC Trust, Ofcom start Gaelic investigations

The BBC Trust and Ofcom have today both started evaluating a proposal to begin a Gaelic language digital TV service in Scotland.

A public value test, comprising an evaluation by the BBC Trust and a market impact assessment undertaken by Ofcom, is now underway although clearance by both bodies is expected to follow in short order; the Trust aims to complete its investigations by December 19 and Ofcom expects its own examination to be completed in September.

"Today sees the start of a rigorous process that any proposed new BBC service must go through," said Jeremy Peat, BBC National Trustee for Scotland. "The Trust is responsible for ensuring that licence fee payers receive value for money from distinctive and high quality BBC services . In considering the proposal for a new Gaelic Digital Service the Trust will listen to a wide range of voices across our audiences, seeking to understand all opinions and expectations. The PVT will be based in Scotland and the views passed to us through the consultation periods will inform our judgement."

"Ofcom’s initial consideration of the Gaelic Digital Service proposal suggests it will not raise significant issues," the regulator said today. "As such Ofcom is consulting on a simplified approach where it is hoped the MIA will be completed in less than the standard three month timeframe."

The Gaelic digital service would be the first BBC public service channel to receive significant funding from a third party; in this case, the Gaelic Media Service. The GMS has purchased SMG's entire stock of Gaelic programming; SMG will promote the Gaelic digital service in exchange for a reduction in its own Gaelic output requirements.

If approved, the GDS is scheduled to commence operations next March.