445.This section enables the Welsh Authority to carry on activities appearing to them to be activities which it is appropriate for them to carry on in association with the function of providing S4C, S4C Digital and any other service approved by the Secretary of State under section 205, or to be connected (other than merely in financial terms) with that function. Prior to carrying out such activities, the Welsh Authority must obtain the approval of the Secretary of State under subsection (2). The types of activities that may be approved by her under subsection (2) include those needed to secure, and those provided in connection with, the provision of licensable services by an S4C company (e.g. a company controlled by the Authority: see section 362(1)), such as the formation of a company to provide a programme service, but do not include the provision of a licensable service. Subsection (6) amends the provisions in the Broadcasting Act 1990 which govern the power of the Welsh Authority to do things incidental or conducive to the carrying out of their functions. Paragraph 27(2) and (3) of Schedule 18 provides that the Secretary of State’s approval is not required for the continuation of activities undertaken by the Welsh Authority or an S4C company before this section comes into effect.
*A licensable service is defined in subsection (7) as an independent television or independent radio service that would be regulated under section 211 or 245 if provided by an S4C company.