Radio,TV broadcast bill gets cabinet nod in Thailand

As reported in Bangkok Post ..............

Radio,TV broadcast bill gets cabinet nod in Thailand

PRADIT RUANGDIT
The draft Radio and Television Broadcasting Bill received
the cabinet's endorsement yesterday, paving the way for
better regulation and establishment of local television
and radio operations. Prime Minister's Office Minister
Thirapat Serirangsan said the bill governs the licensing
of all kinds of radio and television operations, whether
through frequency bands, cable or satellite networks.
With all broadcast outlets put under control, the bill
will be a major step forward in reforming the broadcast
industry, he said.
''PTV can ask for a licence before going on air and ASTV
can continue running, but must apply for a licence first,''
Mr Thirapat said. The PTV station, backed by the now-
defunct Thai Rak Thai party, was banned from broadcasting
before it could go on air, while ASTV was given a court
reprieve to continue its broadcast. Both are satellite-
based.
Details of operators' qualifications, content requirements,
income generation, and subscription of satellite and cable
TV channels would be decided later by the National
Broadcasting Commission, Mr Thirapat said.
Under the bill, licences for broadcasting frequencies
would be classified into a public service, community
service, and business-based operation.
To obtain a licence for public service, a broadcaster must
devote 70% of its contents to education, arts and culture,
health, sports and national security issues.
A non-profit organisation or a group of local people can
apply for a licence to operate a community radio or TV
programmes with 70% of its contents produced for the
benefits of their localities.
In the case of business-oriented broadcasting, an operator
must ensure at least 20% of its contents include news,
documentaries and other substantive issues.
The content requirements must be met throughout the
concession term, which is seven years for a radio
station and 15 years for a TV station, said Mr Thirapat.
To operate a local radio or TV station that covers a
total area of no more than three provinces, an operator
must be a juristic person with a strong financial position.
An ethical sub-committee will be set up to ensure quality
programming, the minister said.

http://www.bangkokpost.com/News/11Jul2007_news13.php