Government plans for a bright digital TV future unveiled

The Government has published a policy framework outlining how its services might be presented on interactive digital TV. The move could be a boon for interactive TV operators such as Sky and help to educate viewers about the medium.

Said David Docherty, director of digital TV company YooMedia: "DTV is a vital medium for closing the divide between the interactive haves and havenots.

For the great majority of people without access to broadband, digital television is the always-on interactive device and it's a matter of social justice that expensively produced Government services should be made available."

The policy is designed to encourage departments to look at using DTV to deliver public services as part of the Government's drive to deliver all public services through electronic channels by 2005.

"DTV presents a wealth of opportunities to improve the way Government services are delivered and used," said Douglas Alexander, former e-commerce minister and now a minister for the cabinet office.

"We must harness this potential to effectively interact with the citizen and deliver services that they need in a way that they want."

This article was first published on Media Week