Broadcasting Act 1996

Radio multiplex services U.K.

F1 45 Assignment of frequencies by Secretary of State. U.K.

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Textual Amendments

F1 S. 45 repealed (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 19(1) Note 1 (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

46 National radio multiplex licences. U.K.

(1) Where [F2 OFCOM] propose to grant a licence to provide a national radio multiplex service, they shall publish, in such manner as they consider appropriate, a notice—

(a) stating that they propose to grant such a licence,

(b) specifying the frequency on which the service is to be provided,

(c) specifying, in such manner as [F2 OFCOM] consider appropriate, the area of the United Kingdom in which the frequency is to be available,

(d) where digital capacity on the frequency is reserved in pursuance of [F3 a condition] under section 48 for the broadcasting of a simulcast radio service, stating that fact and specifying the capacity reserved and the identity of the national service or services concerned,

F4 (e) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(f) inviting applications for the licence and specifying the closing date for such applications,

(g) specifying the fee payable on any application made in pursuance of the notice, and

(h) stating whether any percentage of multiplex revenue for each accounting period would be payable by an applicant in pursuance of section 55 if he were granted the licence and, if so, specifying that percentage.

(2) Unless an order under section 55(2) is in force—

(a) the consent of the Secretary of State shall be required for so much of the notice as relates to the matters specified in subsection (1)(h), and

(b) [F2 OFCOM] may if they think fit (with that consent) specify under subsection (1)(h)—

(i) different percentages in relation to different accounting periods falling within the period for which the licence would be in force, and

(ii) a nil percentage in relation to any accounting period so falling.

(3) When publishing a notice under subsection (1), [F2 OFCOM] —

(a) shall publish with the notice general guidance as to requirements to be met by proposals as to the matters referred to in subsection (4)(b)(i) and (ii) and (f), and

(b) may publish with the notice such other general guidance as they consider appropriate.

(4) Any application made in pursuance of a notice under subsection (1) must be in writing and accompanied by—

(a) the fee specified in the notice under subsection (1)(g),

(b) a technical plan relating to the service which the applicant proposes to provide and indicating—

(i) the parts of the area specified under subsection (1)(c) which would be within the coverage area of the service,

(ii) the timetable in accordance with which that coverage would be achieved, and

(iii) the technical means by which it would be achieved,

(c) the applicant’s proposals as to the number of digital sound programme services to be broadcast and as to the characteristics of each of those services,

(d) the applicant’s proposals as to the timetable in accordance with which the broadcasting of each of those services would begin,

[F5 (da) the applicant’s proposals as to the broadcasting of television licensable content services,]

(e) the applicant’s proposals as to the broadcasting of digital additional services,

(f) the applicant’s proposals for promoting or assisting the acquisition, by persons in the proposed coverage area of the service, of equipment capable of receiving the service,

(g) such information as the Authority may reasonably require as to the applicant’s present financial position and his projected financial position during the period for which the licence would be in force, and

(h) such other information as [F2 OFCOM] may reasonably require for the purpose of considering the application.

(5) In subsection (4)(f) “acquisition” includes acquisition on hire or loan.

(6) At any time after receiving such an application and before determining it, [F2 OFCOM] may require the applicant to furnish additional information under any of paragraphs (b) to (h) of subsection (4).

(7) Any information to be furnished to [F2 OFCOM] under this section shall, if they so require, be in such form or verified in such manner as they may specify.

(8) [F2 OFCOM] shall, as soon as reasonably practicable after the date specified in a notice under subsection (1) as the closing date for applications, publish in such manner as they consider appropriate—

(a) the following matters, namely—

(i) the name of every person who has made an application to them in pursuance of the notice,

(ii) the proposals submitted by him under subsection (4)(c), and

(iii) such other information connected with his application as [F2 OFCOM] consider appropriate; and

(b) a notice—

(i) inviting representations to be made to them with respect to any of the applications, and

(ii) specifying the manner in which, and the time by which, any such representations are to be so made.

Textual Amendments

F2 Words in s. 46 substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 105(2) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F3 Words in s. 46(1)(d) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 105(3) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F4 S. 46(1)(e) repealed (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 19(1) Note 1 (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F5 S. 46(4)(da) inserted (25.7.2006) by The Television Licensable Content Services Order 2006 (S.I. 2006/2131), arts. 1(1), 5(3)

47 Award of national radio multiplex licences. U.K.

(1) Where [F6 OFCOM] have published a notice under section 46(1), they shall in determining whether, or to whom, to award the national radio multiplex licence in question, have regard to the extent to which, taking into account the matters specified in subsection (2) and any representations received by them in pursuance of section 46(8)(b) with respect to those matters, the award of the licence to each applicant would be calculated to promote the development of digital sound broadcasting in the United Kingdom otherwise than by satellite.

(2) The matters referred to in subsection (1) are—

(a) the extent of the coverage area (within the area specified in the notice under section 46(1)(c)) proposed to be achieved by the applicant as indicated in the technical plan submitted by him under section 46(4)(b),

(b) the timetables proposed by the applicant under section 46(4)(b)(ii) and (d),

(c) the ability of the applicant to establish the proposed service and to maintain it throughout the period for which the licence will be in force,

(d) the capacity of the digital sound programme services proposed to be included in the service to appeal to a variety of tastes and interests,

(e) any proposals by the applicant for promoting or assisting the acquisition, by persons in the proposed coverage area of the service, of equipment capable of receiving the service, and

(f) whether, in contracting or offering to contract with persons providing digital sound programme services [F7 , television licensable content services] or digital additional services, the applicant has acted in a manner calculated to ensure fair and effective competition in the provision of such services.

(3) In subsection (2)(e) “acquisition” includes acquisition on hire or loan.

F8 (4) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(5) Where [F6 OFCOM] have awarded a national radio multiplex licence to any person in accordance with this section, they shall, as soon as reasonably practicable after awarding the licence—

(a) publish in such manner as they consider appropriate—

(i) the name of the person to whom the licence has been awarded, and

(ii) such other information as [F6 OFCOM] consider appropriate, and

(b) grant the licence to that person.

Textual Amendments

F6 Words in s. 47 substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 106 (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F7 Words in s. 47(2)(f) inserted (25.7.2006) by The Television Licensable Content Services Order 2006 (S.I. 2006/2131), arts. 1(1), 5(4)

F8 S. 47(4) repealed (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 19(1) Note 1 (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

48 Reservation of capacity for independent national broadcasters. U.K.

[F9 (1A) OFCOM must ensure that the conditions included in national radio multiplex licences (taken together) secure that an amount of digital capacity on the multiplex frequencies is reserved for every independent national broadcaster for the broadcasting of a simulcast radio service provided by that broadcaster.

(1B) Where the conditions of a licence for a national radio multiplex service reserve capacity on the frequency made available for that service for the broadcasting of a simulcast radio service provided by an independent national broadcaster, those conditions must also include the condition specified in subsection (1C).

(1C) That condition is the condition that OFCOM consider appropriate for securing that, in consideration of the making by the independent national broadcaster of the payments which —

(a) are agreed from time to time between him and the licence holder, or

(b) in default of agreement, are determined under this section,

the licence holder uses, for the broadcasting of a simulcast radio service provided by that broadcaster, such of the reserved digital capacity as may be requested, from time to time, by that broadcaster.

(1D) Where conditions are included under this section in a national radio multiplex licence reserving capacity for an independent national broadcaster, OFCOM may include conditions relating to the broadcasting of the simulcast radio service in the licence for the national service provided by that broadcaster.]

(4) Where the holder of a national radio multiplex licence and an independent national broadcaster fail to agree as to the payments to be made under a condition included in the licence in accordance with [F10 subsection (1C)] , either of them may refer the matter to [F11 OFCOM] for their determination.

(5) Before making a determination under subsection (4), [F11 OFCOM] shall give the licence holder and the independent national broadcaster an opportunity of making representations to [F11 OFCOM] about the matter.

(6) In making any determination under subsection (4), [F11 OFCOM] shall have regard to—

(a) the expenses incurred, or likely to be incurred, by the licence holder in providing the national radio multiplex service and in broadcasting the simulcast radio service in question, and

(b) the terms on which persons providing national radio multiplex services contract with persons providing national digital sound programme services for the broadcasting of those services.

[F12 (7) In this section “the multiplex frequencies” means the frequencies made available for the purposes of licensed national radio multiplex services.]

Textual Amendments

F9 S. 48(1A)-(1D) substituted for s. 48(1)-(3) (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 107(2) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F10 Words in s. 48(4) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 107(4) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F11 Words in s. 48(4)-(6) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 107(3) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F12 S. 48(7) inserted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 107(5) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C1 Pt. 2: transfer of functions (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 1 para. 5 (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

C2 Pt. 2 modified (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), ss. 258, 411(2) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

C3 S. 48(4)-(6) applied (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 18 para. 48 (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

49 Duty of Authority to reserve digital capacity for certain purposes of BBC. U.K.

(1) In exercising their powers to grant local radio multiplex licences, [F13 OFCOM] shall reserve to the BBC such digital capacity as [F13 OFCOM] consider appropriate in all the circumstances with a view to enabling every BBC local radio service and every BBC radio service for Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland to be received in digital form within a coverage area which, so far as reasonably practicable, corresponds with the coverage area for that service as provided otherwise than in digital form.

(2) The circumstances to which [F13 OFCOM] may have regard in performing their duty under subsection (1) include the likely demand for digital capacity by persons providing or proposing to provide local digital sound programme services.

(3) Where [F13 OFCOM] propose to grant a licence to provide a local radio multiplex service, they shall notify the BBC of [F13 OFCOM] ’s proposals for reserving to the BBC digital capacity on the frequency in respect of which the licence is to be granted in respect of the area or locality in which it is to be granted.

(4) [F14 If the BBC do not give their consent to the proposals within such period as OFCOM may specify in their notice under subsection (3), OFCOM shall] determine—

(a) whether any digital capacity is to be reserved to the BBC on the grant of the licence, and

(b) if so, the amount of that capacity.

(5) Before making any determination under subsection (4), [F15 OFCOM shall give the BBC an opportunity of making representations to them about their proposals.]

(6) Where a local radio multiplex licence is granted in respect of a frequency and area or locality in respect of which digital capacity is reserved in pursuance of this section, the licence shall include such conditions as appear to [F16 OFCOM] to be appropriate for the purpose of securing that, in consideration of the making by the BBC of such payments as are from time to time agreed between the holder of the licence and the BBC [F17 or (in default of agreement) determined under this section] , the holder of the licence uses such digital capacity as may from time to time be requested by the BBC (not exceeding the amount so reserved) for the broadcasting of services provided by the BBC.

[F18 (7) Where the holder of the licence and the BBC fail to agree—

(a) the payments to be made under a condition included in the licence in accordance with subsection (6), or

(b) the other terms that are to apply in relation to the use of digital capacity in accordance with such a condition,

either of them may refer the matter to OFCOM for determination.

(8) Before making a determination under subsection (7), OFCOM must give the licence holder and the BBC an opportunity of making representations to them about the matter.

(9) In making any determination under subsection (7), OFCOM shall have regard to—

(a) the expenses incurred, or likely to be incurred, by the licence holder in providing the local radio multiplex service in question, and

(b) the terms on which persons providing local radio multiplex services contract with persons providing [F19 television licensable content services or] local digital additional services for the broadcasting of those services.]

Textual Amendments

F13 Words in s. 49(1)-(3) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 108(2) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F14 Words in s. 49(4) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 108(3) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F15 Words in s. 49(5) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 108(4) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F16 Words in s. 49(6) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 108(2) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F17 Words in s. 49(6) inserted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 108(5) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F18 S. 49(7)-(9) inserted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 108(6) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F19 Words in s. 49(9)(b) inserted (25.7.2006) by The Television Licensable Content Services Order 2006 (S.I. 2006/2131), arts. 1(1), 5(5)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C4 S. 49(4): transfer of functions (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 1 para. 12 (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

50 Local radio multiplex licences. U.K.

(1) Where—

(a) the BBC have given their consent to proposals made to them under subsection (3) of section 49, or

(b) [F20 OFCOM have] made a determination under subsection (4) of that section,

[F21 OFCOM] shall publish, in such manner as they consider appropriate, a notice under subsection (2).

(2) A notice under this subsection is a notice—

(a) stating that [F21 the Authority] propose to grant a local radio multiplex licence,

(b) specifying the frequency on which the service is to be provided,

(c) specifying, in such manner as [F21 OFCOM] consider appropriate, the area or locality in the United Kingdom in which it is to be available,

(d) stating whether in pursuance of a [F22 determination under section 49(4)] any digital capacity on the frequency in that area or locality is to be reserved for the broadcasting in digital form of one or more BBC radio services and, if so, specifying the capacity reserved and the identity of the BBC radio services concerned,

(e) inviting applications for the licence and specifying the closing date for such applications, and

(f) specifying the fee payable on any application made in pursuance of the notice.

(3) When publishing a notice under subsection (2), [F21 OFCOM] —

(a) shall publish with the notice general guidance as to requirements to be met by proposals as to the matters referred to in subsection (4)(b)(i) and (ii), and

(b) may publish with the notice such other general guidance as they consider appropriate.

(4) Any application made in pursuance of a notice under subsection (2) must be in writing and accompanied by—

(a) the fee specified in the notice under subsection (2)(f),

(b) a technical plan relating to the service which the applicant proposes to provide and indicating—

(i) the parts of the area or locality specified under subsection (2)(c) which would be within the coverage area of the service,

(ii) the timetable in accordance with which that coverage would be achieved, and

(iii) the technical means by which it would be achieved,

(c) the applicant’s proposals as to the number of digital sound programme services (other than BBC services) to be broadcast and as to the characteristics of each of those services,

(d) the applicant’s proposals as to the timetable in accordance with which the broadcasting of each of those services would begin,

[F23 (da) the applicant’s proposals as to the broadcasting of television licensable content services,]

(e) the applicant’s proposals as to the broadcasting of digital additional services,

(f) such information as [F21 OFCOM] may reasonably require as to the applicant’s present financial position and his projected financial position during the period for which the licence would be in force, and

(g) such other information as [F21 OFCOM] may reasonably require for the purpose of considering the application.

(5) At any time after receiving such an application and before determining it [F21 OFCOM] may require the applicant to furnish additional information under any of paragraphs (b) to (g) of subsection (4).

(6) Any information to be furnished to [F21 OFCOM] under this section shall, if they so require, be in such form or verified in such manner as they may specify.

(7) [F21 OFCOM] shall, as soon as reasonably practicable after the date specified in a notice under subsection (2) as the closing date for applications, publish in such manner as they consider appropriate—

(a) the following matters, namely—

(i) the name of every person who has made an application to them in pursuance of the notice,

(ii) the proposals submitted by him under subsection (4)(c), and

(iii) such other information connected with his application as [F21 OFCOM] consider appropriate; and

(b) a notice—

(i) inviting representations to be made to them with respect to any of the applications, and

(ii) specifying the manner in which, and the time by which, any such representations are to be so made.

Textual Amendments

F20 Words in s. 50(1)(b) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 109(3) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F21 Words in s. 50 substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 109(2) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F22 Words in s. 50(2)(d) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 109(4) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F23 S. 50(4)(da) inserted (25.7.2006) by The Television Licensable Content Services Order 2006 (S.I. 2006/2131), arts. 1(1), 5(6)

51 Award of local radio multiplex licences. U.K.

(1) Where [F24 OFCOM] have published a notice under section 50(2), they shall in determining whether, or to whom, to award the local radio multiplex licence in question, have regard (in relation to each applicant) to the matters specified in subsection (2).

(2) The matters referred to in subsection (1) are—

(a) the extent of the coverage area (within the area or locality specified in the notice under section 50(2)(c)) proposed to be achieved by the applicant as indicated in the technical plan submitted by him under section 50(4)(b),

(b) the timetables proposed by the applicant under section 50(4)(b)(ii) and (d),

(c) the ability of the applicant to establish the proposed service and to maintain it throughout the period for which the licence will be in force,

(d) the extent to which the digital sound programme services (other than BBC services) proposed to be included in the service would cater for the tastes and interests of persons living in the area or locality for which the service is to be provided and, where it is proposed to cater for any particular tastes and interests of such persons, the extent to which those services would cater for those tastes and interests,

(e) the extent to which any such digital sound programme services would broaden the range of programmes available by way of local digital sound programme services to persons living in the area or locality for which it is to be provided and, in particular, the extent to which they would cater for tastes and interests different from those already catered for by local digital sound programme services provided for that area or locality,

[F25 (f) the extent to which there is evidence that, amongst persons living in that area or locality, there is a demand for, or support for, the provision of the proposed service; and]

(g) whether, in contracting or offering to contract with persons providing digital sound programme services [F26 , television licensable content services] or digital additional services, the applicant has acted in a manner calculated to ensure fair and effective competition in the provision of those services.

(3) In considering the matters referred to in subsection (2), [F24 OFCOM] shall take into account any representations made to them in pursuance of section 50(7)(b) with respect to those matters.

(4) Where [F24 OFCOM] have awarded a local radio multiplex licence to any person in accordance with this section, they shall, as soon as reasonably practicable after awarding the licence—

(a) publish in such manner as they consider appropriate—

(i) the name of the person to whom the licence has been awarded, and

(ii) such other information as [F24 OFCOM] consider appropriate, and

(b) grant the licence to that person.

Textual Amendments

F24 Words in s. 51 substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 110(2) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F25 S. 51(2)(f) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 110(3) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F26 Words in s. 51(2)(g) inserted (25.7.2006) by The Television Licensable Content Services Order 2006 (S.I. 2006/2131), arts. 1(1), 5(7)

52 Power to require two or more local radio multiplex licences to be granted to one person. U.K.

(1) [F27 OFCOM] may, before publishing a notice under section 50(2), determine that two or more local radio multiplex licences are on that occasion to be granted to one person.

(2) Where [F27 OFCOM] have so determined, they shall publish a single notice under section 50(2) in relation to the licences.

(3) In relation to any application made in pursuance of such a notice—

(a) references in section 50(4) and 51(2) to the proposed service shall have effect as references to each of the proposed services, and

(b) the reference in section 51(1) to the local radio multiplex licence shall have effect as a reference to all the licences concerned.

(4) Nothing in this section applies in relation to the renewal of a local radio multiplex licence.

Textual Amendments

F27 Words in s. 52 substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 111 (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

53 Failure to begin providing licensed service and financial penalties on revocation of licence. U.K.

(1) Subject to subsection (2), subsection (3) applies where at any time after a radio multiplex licence has been granted to any person but before the licence has come into force—

(a) that person indicates to [F28 OFCOM] that he does not intend to provide the service in question, or

(b) [F28 OFCOM] for any other reason have reasonable grounds for believing that that person will not provide that service once the licence has come into force.

(2) Subsection (3) shall not apply in the case of any person by virtue of paragraph (b) of subsection (1) unless [F28 OFCOM] have served on him a notice stating their grounds for believing that he will not provide the service in question once his licence has come into force; and they shall not serve such a notice on him unless they have given him a reasonable opportunity of making representations to them about the matters complained of.

(3) Where this subsection applies—

(a) [F28 OFCOM] shall serve on the person to whom the licence has been granted a notice revoking the licence as from the time the notice is served on him, and

(b) section 47 or 51 shall (subject to subsection (4)) have effect as if he had not made an application for the licence.

(4) Section 47 or 51 shall not have effect as mentioned in subsection (3) if [F28 OFCOM] decide that it would be desirable to publish a fresh notice under section 46(1) or 50(2) in respect of the grant of the licence.

(5) Where [F28 OFCOM] revoke a radio multiplex licence under this section or under any other provision of this Part, they shall serve on the licence holder a notice requiring him to pay to them, within a specified period, a specified financial penalty not exceeding—

(a) in the case of a local radio multiplex licence, [F29 £250,000] , or

(b) in the case of a national radio multiplex licence, whichever is the greater of—

(i) [F29 £250,000] , or

(ii) the prescribed amount.

(6) In subsection (5)(b)(ii) “the prescribed amount” means—

(a) where—

(i) the licence is revoked under this section, or

(ii) the first complete accounting period of the licence holder falling within the period for which the licence is in force has not yet ended,

7 per cent. of the amount which [F28 OFCOM] estimate would have been the multiplex revenue for that accounting period (as determined in accordance with section 56), and

(b) in any other case, 7 per cent. of the multiplex revenue for the last complete accounting period of the licence holder so falling (as so determined).

(7) Any financial penalty payable by any body by virtue of subsection (5) shall, in addition to being recoverable from that body as provided by section 71(4), be recoverable by [F28 OFCOM] as a debt due to them from any person who controls that body.

Textual Amendments

F28 Words in s. 53 substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 112 (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F29 Words in s. 53(5) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 13 para. 17 (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

54 Conditions attached to national or local radio multiplex licence. U.K.

(1) A radio multiplex licence shall include such conditions as appear to [F30 OFCOM] to be appropriate for securing—

(a) that the licensed service is established by the licence holder in accordance with the timetable and other proposals indicated in the technical plan submitted under section 46(4)(b) or 50(4)(b),

(b) the implementation of any proposals submitted by the licence holder under section 46(4)(c) to (f) or 50(4)(c) to (e),

(c) that all digital sound programme services broadcast under the licence are provided—

(i) in the case of a national radio multiplex licence, by the holder of a national digital sound programme licence under section 60, and

(ii) in the case of a local radio multiplex licence, by the BBC or the holder of a local digital sound programme licence under that section,

[F31 (ca) that all television licensable content services broadcast under the licence are provided by the holder of a licence under Part 1 of the 1990 Act to provide such a service or by [F32 a CTT broadcaster] (within the meaning given by section 12(3A));]

(d) that all digital additional services broadcast under the licence are provided by the holder of a licence under section 64,

(e) that in the terms on which the holder of the licence contracts, or offers to contract, for the broadcasting of digital sound programme services [F33 , television licensable content services] or digital additional services, he does not show undue discrimination either against or in favour of a particular person providing such a service or a class of such persons,

(f) that the holder of the licence does not, in any agreement with a person providing a digital sound programme service [F34 , television licensable content service] or digital additional services which entitles that person to use a specified amount of digital capacity on the frequency or frequencies to which the licence relates, restrict that person’s freedom to make arrangements with some other person as to the use of any of that digital capacity (except to the extent that the restriction is reasonably required for the purpose of ensuring the technical quality of the broadcasts or for the purpose of securing compliance with any other condition of the licence),

(g) that the signals carrying the radio multiplex service attain high standards in terms of technical quality and reliability throughout so much of the area or locality for which the service is provided as is for the time being reasonably practicable, and

[F35 (h) that, while the licence is in force, at least the required percentage of the digital capacity on the frequency or frequencies on which the service is broadcast is used, or left available to be used, for the broadcasting of services falling within subsection (1A).]

[F36 (1A) The services falling within this subsection are—

(a) digital sound programme services;

(b) simulcast radio services;

(c) programme-related services; and

(d) relevant technical services.]

(2) In [F37 subsection (1A)] —

(a) “programme-related service” means any digital additional service consisting in the provision of services (apart from advertising) which—

(i) are ancillary to the programmes included in one or more digital sound programme services, simulcast radio services or local or national services [F38 (within the meaning of section 245 of the Communications Act 2003)] and are directly related to the contents of those programmes, or

(ii) relate to the promotion or listing of such programmes, and

(b) “relevant technical service” means any technical service which relates to one or more digital sound programme services.

[F39 (2A) In subsection (1)(h), the reference to the required percentage is a reference to such percentage equal to or more than [F40 70 per cent.] as OFCOM—

(a) consider appropriate; and

(b) specify in the condition.]

(3) The Secretary of State may, after consulting [F30 OFCOM] , by order amend [F41 subsection (2A)] by substituting a different percentage for the percentage for the time being specified in [F42 that subsection] .

(4) No order under subsection (3) shall be made unless a draft of the order has been laid before and approved by a resolution of each House of Parliament.

(5) Any conditions imposed in pursuance of subsection (1)(a) or (b) may be varied by [F30 OFCOM] with the consent of the licence holder (and section 42(3)(b) shall accordingly not apply to any such variation).

[F43 (6) Where the licence holder applies to OFCOM for the variation of a condition which—

(a) was imposed under subsection (1)(b), and

(b) relates to the characteristics of digital sound programme services to be broadcast under the licence,

then (subject to subsections (6A) and (6B)) OFCOM must vary the condition in accordance with the application.

(6A) OFCOM are not to vary a national radio multiplex licence in accordance with an application under subsection (6) if it appears to them that, if the application were granted, the capacity of the digital sound programme services broadcast under the licence to appeal to a variety of tastes and interests would be unacceptably diminished.

(6B) OFCOM are to vary a local radio multiplex licence in accordance with such an application only if they are satisfied—

(a) that the variation would not unacceptably narrow the range of programmes available by way of local digital sound programme services to persons living in the area or locality for which the licensed multiplex service is provided;

(b) that the variation would be conducive to the maintenance or promotion of fair and effective competition in that area or locality; or

(c) that there is evidence that, amongst persons living in that area or locality, there is a significant demand for, or significant support for, the change that would result from the variation.]

F44 (7) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

F30 Words in s. 54 substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 113 (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F31 S. 54(1)(ca) inserted (25.7.2006) by The Television Licensable Content Services Order 2006 (S.I. 2006/2131), arts. 1(1), 5(8)(a)

F32 Words in s. 54(1)(ca) substituted (31.12.2020) by The Broadcasting (Amendment) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 (S.I. 2019/224), reg. 1(2), Sch. 1 para. 8 (with reg. 6) (as amended by S.I. 2020/1536, reg. 5(2)(3)); 2020 c. 1, Sch. 5 para. 1(1)

F33 Words in s. 54(1)(e) inserted (25.7.2006) by The Television Licensable Content Services Order 2006 (S.I. 2006/2131), arts. 1(1), 5(8)(b)

F34 Words in s. 54(1)(f) inserted (25.7.2006) by The Television Licensable Content Services Order 2006 (S.I. 2006/2131), arts. 1(1), 5(8)(c)

F35 S. 54(1)(h) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), ss. 259(2), 411(2) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F36 S. 54(1A) inserted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), ss. 259(3), 411(2) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F37 Words in s. 54(2) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), ss. 259(4)(a), 411(2) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F38 Words in s. 54(2)(i) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), ss. 259(4)(b), 411(2) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F39 S. 54(2A) inserted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), ss. 259(5), 411(2) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F40 Words in s. 54(2A) substituted (25.7.2006) by The Radio Multiplex Services (Required Percentage of Digital Capacity) Order 2006 (S.I. 2006/2130), arts. 1(1), 2

F41 Words in s. 54(3) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), ss. 259(6)(a), 411(2) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F42 Words in s. 54(3) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), ss. 259(6)(b), 411(2) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F43 S. 54(6)-(6B) substituted for s. 54(6) (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), ss. 315, 411(2) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F44 S. 54(7) repealed (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 19(1) Note 1 (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

[F45 54A Variation of radio multiplex licences: frequency or licensed area U.K.

(1) OFCOM may, if the requirements of subsections (3) to (5) are met, vary a national radio multiplex licence by extending the area in which the licensed service is required to be available.

(2) OFCOM may, if the requirements of subsections (3) to (6) are met, vary a local radio multiplex licence by—

(a) varying the frequency on which the licensed service is required to be provided,

(b) reducing the area or locality in which the licensed service is required to be available, or

(c) extending that area or locality to include an adjoining area or locality.

(3) OFCOM must have received an application for the variation from the licence holder.

(4) The application must include a technical plan relating to the service proposed to be provided under the licence indicating, in particular—

(a) the area or locality which would be within the coverage area of the service,

(b) the timetable in accordance with which that coverage would be achieved, and

(c) the technical means by which it would be achieved.

(5) Before deciding whether to grant the application, OFCOM must publish a notice specifying—

(a) the proposed variation of the licence, and

(b) a period in which representations may be made to OFCOM about the proposal.

(6) In the case of a local radio multiplex licence, OFCOM may vary the licence in accordance with the application only if they are satisfied that doing so would not unacceptably narrow the range of programmes available by way of local digital sound programme services to persons living in the area or locality for which, before the proposed variation, the local radio multiplex service is required to be available.]

Textual Amendments

F45 S. 54A inserted (8.6.2010) by Digital Economy Act 2010 (c. 24), ss. 35, 47(1)

55 Additional payments to be made in respect of national radio multiplex licences. U.K.

(1) Where a national radio multiplex licence is granted in pursuance of a notice under subsection (1) of section 46 which specified a percentage of multiplex revenue under paragraph (h) of that subsection, the licence shall include conditions requiring the licence holder to pay to [F46 OFCOM] (in addition to any fees required to be so paid by virtue of section 43(1)(c)) in respect of each accounting period of his falling within the period for which the licence is in force, an amount representing such percentage of the multiplex revenue for that accounting period (determined under section 56) as was specified in the notice.

(2) The Secretary of State may by order provide that, in relation to any notice under subsection (1) of section 46 published while the order is in force, no percentage shall be specified under paragraph (h) of that subsection.

(3) Any order under subsection (2) shall be subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of either House of Parliament.

(4) A national radio multiplex licence may include conditions—

(a) enabling [F46 OFCOM] to estimate before the beginning of an accounting period the amount due for that period by virtue of subsection (1), and

(b) requiring the licence holder to pay the estimated amount by monthly instalments throughout that period.

(5) Such a licence may in particular include conditions—

(a) authorising [F46 OFCOM] to revise any estimate on one or more occasions, and to adjust the instalments payable by the licence holder to take account of the revised estimate;

(b) providing for the adjustment of any overpayment or underpayment.

(6) Where—

(a) the first complete accounting period of the licence holder falling within the period for which the licence is in force (“the licence period”) does not begin at the same time as that period, or

(b) the last complete accounting period of his falling within the licence period does not end at the same time as that period,

any reference in subsection (1) to an accounting period of his shall include a reference to such part of the accounting period preceding that first complete accounting period, or (as the case may be) following that last complete accounting period, as falls within the licence period; and other references to accounting periods in this Part shall be construed accordingly.

Textual Amendments

F46 Words in s. 55 substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 114 (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

56 Multiplex revenue. U.K.

(1) For the purposes of [F47 this Part] the multiplex revenue for each accounting period of [F48 the person who is the multiplex provider in relation to a national radio multiplex service] shall consist of—

(a) all payments received or to be received by him or any person connected with him from a person other than a programme provider or an additional services provider—

(i) in consideration of the inclusion in that period, in any digital sound programme service or digital additional service broadcast by means of the national radio multiplex service F49 ..., of advertisements or other programmes, or

(ii) in respect of charges made in that period for the reception of programmes included in any such digital sound programme service or digital additional service,

(b) all payments received or to be received by him or any person connected with him in respect of the broadcasting of any simulcast radio service by means of the national radio multiplex service,

(c) all payments received or to be received by any programme provider or any person connected with him from a person other than [F50 the multiplex provider] , an additional service provider or another programme provider—

(i) in consideration of the inclusion in that period, in any digital sound programme service provided by him for broadcasting by means of the national radio multiplex service, of advertisements or other programmes, or

(ii) in respect of charges made in that period for the reception of programmes included in any such digital sound programme service, and

(d) all payments received or to be received by any additional services provider or any person connected with him from a person other than [F51 the multiplex provider] , a programme provider or another additional services provider—

(i) in consideration of the inclusion in that period, in any digital additional service provided by him for broadcasting by means of the national radio multiplex service, of advertisements or other programmes, or

(ii) in respect of charges made in that period for the reception of programmes included in any such digital additional service.

(2) If, in connection with the inclusion of any advertisements or other programmes whose inclusion is paid for by payments falling within subsection (1)(a)(i), any payments are made to [F52 the multiplex provider] or any person connected with him to meet any payments payable by [F52 the multiplex provider] by virtue of section 55(1), those payments shall be regarded as made in consideration of the inclusion of the programmes in question.

(3) In the case of an advertisement included as mentioned in subsection (1)(a)(i), (c)(i) or (d)(i) under arrangements made between—

(a) [F52 the multiplex provider] , a programme provider or an additional services provider or any person connected with any of them, and

(b) a person acting as an advertising agent,

the amount of any receipt by [F52 the multiplex provider] , programme provider or additional services provider or any connected person that represents a payment by the advertiser from which the advertising agent has deducted any amount by way of commission shall, except in a case falling within subsection (4), be the amount of the payment by the advertiser after the deduction of the commission.

(4) If the amount deducted by way of commission as mentioned in subsection (3) exceeds 15 per cent. of the payment by the advertiser, the amount of the receipt in question shall be taken to be the amount of the payment less 15 per cent.

(5) If, in any accounting period of [F52 the multiplex provider] , a programme provider or an additional services provider or a person connected with any of them derives, in relation to any programme to be included in the relevant service, any financial benefit (whether direct or indirect) from payments made by any person other than the licence holder, by way of sponsorship, for the purpose of defraying or contributing towards costs incurred or to be incurred in connection with that programme, the relevant payments shall be taken to include the amount of the financial benefit so derived by [F52 the multiplex provider] or the connected person, as the case may be.

(6) In subsection (5)—

(a) “the relevant service” means—

(i) in relation to a programme provider or a person connected with him, any digital sound programme service provided as mentioned in subsection (1)(c)(i), and

(ii) in relation to an additional services provider or a person connected with him, any digital additional service provided as mentioned in subsection (1)(d)(i), and

(b) “relevant payments” means—

(i) in relation to a programme provider, the payments referred to in subsection (1)(c), and

(ii) in relation to an additional services provider, the payments referred to in subsection (1)(d).

(7) Where, in any accounting period of [F52 the multiplex provider] —

(a) [F52 the multiplex provider] provides a digital sound programme service or digital additional service for broadcasting by means of the multiplex service,

(b) [F52 the multiplex provider] is engaged in any activity which, if engaged in by another person, would result in payments falling within subsection (1)(a) being made to the licence holder,

(c) a programme provider is engaged in any activity which, if engaged in by another person, would result in payments falling within subsection (1)(c) being made to the programme provider, or

(d) an additional services provider is engaged in any activity which, if engaged in by another person, would result in payments falling within subsection (1)(d) being made to the additional services provider,

[F53 OFCOM] may, if they consider that the amount which would (apart from this subsection) be the multiplex revenue for that accounting period is less than it would have been if the digital sound programme service or digital additional service had been provided, or the activity engaged in, by another person at arm’s length, treat the multiplex revenue as increased by the amount of the difference.

(8) Where, in any accounting period of [F52 the multiplex provider] or a programme provider or additional services provider receives payments falling within subsection (1)(a), (b), (c) or (d) from a person connected with him and it appears to the Authority that the amount which (apart from this subsection) would be the multiplex revenue for that accounting period is less than it would have been if the arrangements between him and the connected person were such as might be expected between parties at arm’s length, [F53 OFCOM] may treat the multiplex revenue as increased by the amount of the difference.

(9) In this section—

• “additional services provider”, in relation to [F54 a national radio multiplex service] , means any person who provides any digital additional service for broadcasting by means of [F55 that radio multiplex service] ;

• “ [F56 multiplex provider ”-

  in relation to a national radio multiplex service for which a person holds a licence under this Part, means the licence holder; and

  in relation to a national radio multiplex service which is not licensed under this Part, means the person who provides that service.]

• “programme provider”, in relation to [F54 a national radio multiplex service] , means any person who provides a digital sound programme service for broadcasting by means of [F55 that radio multiplex service] .

[F57 (10) This section and section 57 shall have effect as if references in this section to digital sound programme services included references to television licensable content services.]

Textual Amendments

F47 Words in s. 56(1) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 115(2)(a) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F48 Words in s. 56(1) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 115(2)(b) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F49 Words in s. 56(1)(a)(i) repealed (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 115(2)(c), Sch. 19(1) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F50 Words in s. 56(1)(c) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 115(2)(d) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F51 Words in s. 56(1)(d) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 115(2)(d) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F52 Words in s. 56(2)-(8) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 115(3)(a) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F53 Words in s. 56(2)-(8) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 115(3)(b) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F54 Words in s. 56(9) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 115(4)(a) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F55 Words in s. 56(9) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 115(4)(b) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F56 Words in s. 56(9) inserted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 115(4)(c) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F57 S. 56(10) inserted (25.7.2006) by The Television Licensable Content Services Order 2006 (S.I. 2006/2131), arts. 1(1), 5(9)

57 Attribution of multiplex revenue to licence holder and others. U.K.

(1) For the purposes of section [F58 59(2A) and (2B)] , the share of multiplex revenue attributable to [F59 the person who is the multiplex provider in relation to a national radio multiplex service] in respect of any accounting period of his shall be—

(a) the aggregate of—

(i) payments falling within paragraph (a) or (b) of section 56(1), and

(ii) payments received or to be received by him from programme providers and additional services providers in respect of the provision of radio multiplex services in that period,

less

(b) the amount of any payments made or to be made to programme providers or additional service providers which would fall within paragraph (c) or (d) of section 56(1) but for the fact that they are received from [F60 the person who is the multiplex provider in relation to a national radio multiplex service] .

(2) For the purposes of [F61 sections 62(2A) to (5) and 66(2A) to (5)] , the share of multiplex revenue attributable to a programme provider or additional services provider in relation to a national radio multiplex service in respect of any accounting period of [F62 the multiplex provider] shall be—

(a) the aggregate of—

(i) payments falling within paragraph (c) or (d) of section 56(1), and

(ii) payments received or to be received from [F62 the multiplex provider] which would fall within one of those paragraphs but for the fact that they are received from [F62 the multiplex provider] ,

less

(b) the amount of any payments made or to be made to [F62 the multiplex provider] in respect of the provision of radio multiplex services in that period.

(3) In a case falling within subsection (7) or (8) of section 56, [F63 OFCOM] may treat the share of multiplex revenue attributable to any person for the accounting period of [F64 the multiplex provider] as increased by such amount as they consider appropriate to take account of the circumstances mentioned in that subsection.

(4) In this section “additional services provider” [F65 , multiplex provider] and “programme provider”, in relation to [F66 a national radio multiplex service] , have the same meaning as in section 56.

Textual Amendments

F58 Words in s. 57(1) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 13 para. 18(1)(3) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F59 Words in s. 57(1) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 116(2)(a) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F60 Words in s. 57(1) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 116(2)(b) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F61 Words in s. 57(2) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 13 para. 18(2)(3) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F62 Words in s. 57(2) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 116(3) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F63 Words in s. 57(3) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 116(4)(a) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F64 Words in s. 57(3) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 116(4)(b) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F65 Words in s. 57(4) inserted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 116(5)(a) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F66 Words in s. 57(4) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 116(5)(b) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

58 Duration and renewal of national or local radio multiplex licences. U.K.

(1) A radio multiplex licence shall (subject to the provisions of this Part and to section 111 of the 1990 Act as applied by section 59(8)) continue in force for a period of twelve years.

(2) [F67 Subject to subsection (2A),] a radio multiplex licence [F68 granted within ten years] of the commencement of this section may be renewed on one occasion in accordance with this section

[F69 (a) in the case of a licence granted within six years of that commencement, for a period of twelve years beginning with the date on which it would otherwise expire; and

(b) in any other case, for a period of eight years beginning with that date[F70 ; but nothing in this subsection prevents section 58ZA from applying in relation to any licence.]]

[F71 (2A) A national radio multiplex licence granted (or renewed under this section) before the commencement of this subsection may be renewed (or further renewed) in accordance with this section for a period ending with 31st December 2035.]

(3) An application for the renewal of a radio multiplex licence under subsection (2) may be made by the licence holder not earlier than four years before the date on which it would otherwise cease to be in force and not later than [F72 the day falling three months before] the relevant date.

[F73 (3A) An application for the renewal of a national radio multiplex licence under subsection (2A) may be made by the licence holder not later than the relevant date.]

(4) At any time before determining the application, [F74 OFCOM] may—

(a) require the applicant to furnish—

(i) a technical plan which supplements that submitted by the licence holder under section 46(4)(b) or 50(4)(b), and

(ii) in the case of a national radio multiplex licence, proposals which supplement that submitted by the licence holder under section 46(4)(f), and

(b) notify the applicant of requirements which must be met by that supplementary technical plan or those supplementary proposals and relate to the matters referred to in section 46(4)(b)(i) and (ii) or 50(4)(b)(i) and (ii).

F75 (5) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(6) Where any such application is made F76 ..., [F74 OFCOM] may postpone consideration of it by them for as long as they think appropriate having regard to subsection (10).

(7) Where an application for the renewal of a radio multiplex licence has been duly made to [F74 OFCOM], they may refuse the application only if—

(a) it appears to them that the applicant has failed to comply with any of the conditions included in his licence,

(b) any supplementary technical plan or supplementary proposals submitted under subsection (4)(a) fail to meet requirements notified to the applicant under subsection (4)(b), or

(c) they are not satisfied that the applicant would, if his licence were renewed, provide a service which complied with the conditions to be included in the licence as renewed.

(8) Subject to subsection (9), on the grant of any such application [F74 OFCOM] may with the consent of the Secretary of State, and shall if so required by him—

(a) specify a percentage different from that specified under section 46(1)(h) as the percentage of multiplex revenue for each accounting period of his that will be payable by the applicant in pursuance of section 55(1) during the period for which the licence is to be renewed, or

(b) specify such a percentage where none was specified under section 46(1)(h);

and [F74 OFCOM] may specify under paragraph (a) or (b) either of the things mentioned in section 46(2)(b).

(9) Where an order under section 55(2) is in force on the relevant date, no percentage of multiplex revenue shall be payable as mentioned in subsection (8)(a) during the period for which the licence is to be renewed.

(10) Where [F74 OFCOM] have granted a person’s application under this section, they shall formally renew his licence from the date on which it would otherwise expire; but in the case of a national multiplex licence they shall not so renew his licence unless they have notified him of any percentage specified by them under subsection (8) and he has, within such period as is specified in that notification, notified them that he consents to the licence being renewed on those terms.

(11) Where a radio multiplex licence has been renewed under this section, the licence as renewed shall include such further conditions as appear to [F74 OFCOM] to be appropriate for securing the implementation of any supplementary technical plan and supplementary proposals submitted under subsection (4)(a).

(12) In this section “the relevant date”, in relation to a radio multiplex licence, means the date which [F74 OFCOM] determine to be that by which they would need to publish a notice under section 46(1) or 50(2) if they were to grant, as from the date on which that licence would expire if not renewed, a fresh licence to provide the service formerly provided under that licence.

[F77 (12A) A determination for the purposes of subsection (12)—

(a) must be made at least one year before the date determined [F78 , subject to subsection (12B)]; and

(b) must be notified by OFCOM to the person who holds the licence in question.]

[F79 (12B) Subsection (12A)(a) does not prevent a determination for the purposes of subsection (12) being made less than one year before the date determined where—

(a) the renewal of the licence in question would be a renewal under subsection (2A), and

(b) the determination is made as soon as practicable after the commencement of this subsection.]

(13) Nothing in this section prevents the holder of a radio multiplex licence from applying for a new licence on one or more occasions in pursuance of a notice under section 46(1) or 50(2).

Textual Amendments

F67 Words in s. 58(2) inserted (8.4.2022) by The Legislative Reform (Renewal of National Radio Multiplex Licences) Order 2022 (S.I. 2022/444), arts. 1, 3(a)

F68 Words in s. 58(2) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), ss. 261(a), 411(2) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F69 Words in s. 58(2) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), ss. 261(b), 411(2) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F70 Words in s. 58(2)(b) inserted (6.4.2015) by The Broadcasting Act 1996 (Renewal of Local Radio Multiplex Licences) Regulations 2015 (S.I. 2015/904), regs. 1, 2

F71 S. 58(2A) inserted (8.4.2022) by The Legislative Reform (Renewal of National Radio Multiplex Licences) Order 2022 (S.I. 2022/444), arts. 1, 3(b)

F72 Words in s. 58(3) inserted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 117(3) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F73 S. 58(3A) inserted (8.4.2022) by The Legislative Reform (Renewal of National Radio Multiplex Licences) Order 2022 (S.I. 2022/444), arts. 1, 3(c)

F74 Words in s. 58 substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 117(2) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F75 S. 58(5) repealed (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 117(4), Sch. 19(1) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F76 Words in s. 58(6) repealed (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 19(1) Note 1 (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F77 S. 58(12A) inserted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 117(5) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F78 Words in s. 58(12A)(a) inserted (8.4.2022) by The Legislative Reform (Renewal of National Radio Multiplex Licences) Order 2022 (S.I. 2022/444), arts. 1, 3(d)

F79 S. 58(12B) inserted (8.4.2022) by The Legislative Reform (Renewal of National Radio Multiplex Licences) Order 2022 (S.I. 2022/444), arts. 1, 3(e)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C5 S. 58(3) modified (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 18 para. 50(3)-(6) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

[F80 58ZA Renewal of local radio multiplex licences U.K.

(1) The holder of a local radio multiplex licence may apply to OFCOM for a renewal of that licence if that person has completed the works necessary to ensure that, as a minimum, coverage of the multiplex service in the area or locality in which the licence is granted complies with the coverage plan for that area or locality.

(2) A licence renewed under this section is to expire on 31st December 2030.

(3) An application for a renewal of a licence must be made not later than the day falling three months before the relevant date.

(4) At any time before determining the application, OFCOM may require the applicant to provide a technical plan supplementing those (if any) submitted under sections 50(4)(b) and 58(4)(a)(i).

(5) Where an application has been duly made under this section, OFCOM may refuse the application only if—

(a) it appears to them that the applicant has failed to comply with any of the conditions included in the licence, or

(b) they are not satisfied that the applicant would, if the licence were renewed, provide a service complying with the conditions to be included in the licence as renewed.

(6) Where OFCOM have granted a person’s application they must formally renew the person’s licence from the date on which the application is granted.

(7) Where a licence is renewed under this section, the licence as renewed must include—

(a) a condition that the holder of the licence must, for the duration of the licence, maintain, as a minimum, the coverage of the multiplex service in the area or locality concerned at the level attained at the time the application for renewal of the licence was made;

(b) such further conditions as appear to OFCOM to be appropriate for securing the implementation of any supplementary technical plan submitted under subsection (4).

(8) In this section—

• “coverage plan”, in relation to an area or locality in which a local radio multiplex licence is granted, means a plan produced by OFCOM which sets out the coverage on local Digital Audio Broadcasting which OFCOM have assessed is broadly equivalent to relevant existing FM local commercial radio coverage in that area or locality

• “the relevant date” shall be determined in accordance with section 58.

(9) Nothing in this section prevents the holder of a local radio multiplex licence from applying for a new licence on one or more occasions in pursuance of a notice under section 50(2).]

Textual Amendments

F80 S. 58ZA inserted (6.4.2015) by The Broadcasting Act 1996 (Renewal of Local Radio Multiplex Licences) Regulations 2015 (S.I. 2015/904), regs. 1, 3

[F81 58A Renewal of radio multiplex licences: supplementary U.K.

(1) The Secretary of State may by regulations—

(a) amend section 58, and

(b) make further provision about the renewal of radio multiplex licences.

(2) The regulations may, in particular, make provision about—

(a) the circumstances in which OFCOM may renew a radio multiplex licence,

(b) the period for which a licence may be renewed,

(c) the information that OFCOM may require an applicant for renewal of a licence to provide,

(d) the requirements that must be met by such an applicant,

(e) the grounds on which OFCOM may refuse an application for renewal of a licence,

(f) payments to be made in respect of a licence following its renewal, and

(g) further conditions to be included in a licence following its renewal.

(3) The regulations may, in particular, amend or modify this Part of this Act.

(4) A statutory instrument containing the regulations may not be made unless a draft of the instrument has been laid before, and approved by a resolution of, each House of Parliament.

(5) The power to make regulations under this section may not be exercised after 31 December 2015 (but this does not affect the continuation in force of any regulations made under this section before that date).]

Textual Amendments

F81 S. 58A inserted (8.6.2010) by Digital Economy Act 2010 (c. 24), ss. 36(1), 47(1)

59 Enforcement of national or local radio multiplex licences. U.K.

(1) If [F82 OFCOM] are satisfied that the holder of a radio multiplex licence has failed to comply with any condition of the licence or with any direction given by [F82 OFCOM] under or by virtue of any provision of this Part, they may (subject to the following provisions of this section) serve on him—

(a) a notice requiring him to pay, within a specified period, a specified financial penalty to [F82 OFCOM] , or

(b) a notice reducing the period for which the licence is to be in force by a specified period not exceeding two years.

(2) The amount of any financial penalty imposed in pursuance of subsection (1)(a) on the holder of a national radio multiplex licence shall not exceed [F83 the maximum penalty given by subsection (2A).]

[F84 (2A) The maximum penalty is whichever is the greater of—

(a) £250,000; and

(b) 5 per cent. of the aggregate amount of the share of multiplex revenue attributable to him for his last complete accounting period falling within a period for which his licence has been in force (“the relevant period”).

(2B) In relation to a person whose first complete accounting period falling within the relevant period has not ended when the penalty is imposed, subsection (2A)(b) is to be construed as referring to 5 per cent. of the amount which OFCOM estimate to be the share of multiplex revenue attributable to him for that accounting period.

(2C) Section 57(1) and (3) applies for determining or estimating the share of multiplex revenue attributable to a person for the purposes of subsection (2A) or (2B) above.]

(4) The amount of any financial penalty imposed in pursuance of subsection (1)(a) on the holder of a local radio multiplex licence shall not exceed [F85 £250,000] .

(5) [F82 OFCOM] shall not serve on any person any notice under subsection (1) unless they have given him a reasonable opportunity of making representations to them about the matters complained of.

(6) Where a licence is due to expire on a particular date by virtue of a notice served on any person under subsection (1)(b), [F82 OFCOM] may, on the application of that person, revoke that notice by a further notice served on him at any time before that date, if they are satisfied that, since the date of the earlier notice, his conduct in relation to the operation of the licensed service has been such as to justify the revocation of that notice.

(7) Where [F82 OFCOM] serve a notice on a BBC company under any provision of this section, they shall send a copy of the notice to the Secretary of State.

(8) Subject to subsection (9), section 111 of the 1990 Act (power to revoke licence granted under Chapter II of Part III of the 1990 Act) shall have effect in relation to a radio multiplex licence as it has effect in relation to a licence under Chapter II of Part III of the 1990 Act.

(9) In its application in relation to a radio multiplex licence, section 111 of the 1990 Act shall have effect—

(a) with the substitution in subsection (1)(a) for the reference to Part III of the 1990 Act of a reference to this Part, and

(b) with the omission of subsection (4) and the reference to that subsection in subsection (6).

Textual Amendments

F82 Words in s. 59 substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 15 para. 118 (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F83 Words in s. 59(2) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 13 para. 19(1)(4) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F84 S. 59(2A)-(2C) substituted for s. 59(3) (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 13 para. 19(2)(4) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

F85 Word in s. 59(4) substituted (29.12.2003) by Communications Act 2003 (c. 21), s. 411(2), Sch. 13 para. 19(3)(4) (with Sch. 18); S.I. 2003/3142, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 (with art. 11)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C6 S. 59(1) modified (20.7.2004) by The Contracting Out (Functions relating to Broadcast Advertising) and Specification of Relevant Functions Order 2004 (S.I. 2004/1975), art. 1, Sch. para. 4(d) (with art. 5)