Culture secretary opens consultation on digital future

Review of UK communications sector to form basis of future framework for broadcasting and communications in the 'digital age'

Culture Secretary Jeremy Hunt has launched a review of the UK communications sector, with a call for evidence on how to best reduce regulatory burden and future proof for the 'digital age'.

This is the first stage in a period of consultation that will inform a parliamentary bill, and by reforming legislation, the review aims to drive growth and innovation.

"We need to imagine what new technologies will emerge and how broadcasting and telecommunications might look in another 15 years," said Hunt.

"We want a communications framework that will drive growth and innovation, remove unnecessary burdens and continue to protect consumers and the public."

Hunt has identified three areas that the consultation will focus on:

• Growth, innovation and deregulation
• A communications infrastructure that provides the foundations for growth
• Creating the right environment for the content industry to thrive

The UK's communications and creative industries, television and radio broadcasters and publishers are expected to provide evidence, which will form the basis of a green paper to be published later this year.