CL-91xx chips are pin-for-pin compatible with AViA. These got to be AViA boxes. Licence approved.............................
Video-on-demand programme service licence approved
Wednesday, November 5, 1997
The Broadcasting, Culture and Sport Bureau announced today (Wednesday) that the Chief Executive-in-Council has approved in principle that Hongkong Telecom VOD Limited (HKTVOD) should be awarded a Video-On-Demand (VOD) programme service licence.
The applications of Elmsdale Limited and Future TV (HK) Limited (FutureTV) had been unsuccessful, and a decision on Star Interactive Television Limited (Star iTV) had been deferred.
The Deputy Secretary for Broadcasting, Culture and Sport, Mrs Rita Lau, said: "Except for Star iTV's application which has been deferred, the decision taken on the remaining applications was made on the basis of their merits.
"In view of the legal action taken against Star iTV, we believe that it is prudent to defer consideration of its application until we have assessed the significance of the claim."
"In all fairness to Star iTV, we will proceed quickly with the assessment and hope to complete it as soon as possible," She added.
Mrs Lau said: "The Executive Council's decision was reached after careful consideration of the recommendations of the Broadcasting Authority and the proposals made by the applicants.
"The application and evaluation process was a fair and open one. Each of the applicants was given equal opportunity to appear before the Broadcasting Authority to make a presentation and to answer questions in relation to their applications."
The applicants were given almost four months to prepare and submit their applications. The Broadcasting Authority had followed closely the criteria published in the Guidance Note in its assessment. These include corporate structure, financial strength, technical competence and the applicants' programme and service proposals.
"Hong Kong can take pride in becoming the first place in the world to have a high-tech, interactive multimedia service offered on a commercial scale," said Mrs Lau.
Not only will Hong Kong viewers have more choice, VOD programme services will also allow viewers to select and watch programmes at any time at their convenience. VOD technology also allows the provision of other interactive services such as home banking, home shopping and electronic games.
"The successful launch of VOD services will enhance Hong Kong's position as a broadcasting and telecommunication hub," she added.
The Government will commence negotiation with HKTVOD to finalise the terms and conditions of the licence for the Executive Council's final approval before the end of the year. |
