Govt Moots Easing Of TV, Radio Licensing Rules

The government has suggested relaxing some rules regarding the ownership of television and radio licences to attract investment and modernise the sector.

In a three month public consultation into the city's Broadcasting and Telecommunications Ordinances launched on Tuesday, the authorities indicate they believe that a ban on acquiring new broadcasting licences should be limited to those who already hold free-TV, pay-TV or radio licences.

The bar on other media organisations like newspaper owners, advertising agencies and other media businesses, should be removed, they said.

The administration said it believes that other key regulatory frameworks, like foreign ownership, should stay. It is also looking to introduce more flexibility for licencees when it comes to their other businesses.

The proposals come at a time when traditional broadcasters face increasing competition from online platforms.

Commerce Secretary Edward Yau said the government will take into account all views before arriving at decisions.

The public consultation ends on May 19.