This Order modifies Part 1 of the Broadcasting Act 1996 to give OFCOM the power to further renew the Multiplex A, B, C, D and Multiplex 2 licences. These are licences to provide television multiplex services - the means by which digital terrestrial television is broadcast (i.e. digital television services received via a conventional aerial).

Section 16 is modified to allow OFCOM to renew the licences for a second time for a period ending on or before 31st December 2034. Section 16 is also modified to give OFCOM the powers to ensure that the Multiplex 2 licence continues to be held by a company controlled by one or more public service broadcasters.

This Order also modifies Part 1 of that Act to give OFCOM the power to revoke the Multiplex A, B, C, D and Multiplex 2 licences for spectrum management reasons where such licences have been renewed on a second occasion. Section 16A sets out the procedure to be followed by OFCOM which provides for a notice period of five years, allows for representations from the licence holder, and ensures that the revocation cannot take effect earlier than 31st December 2030.

A full impact assessment has not been produced for this instrument as no, or no significant, impact on the private or voluntary sector is foreseen.