Broadcasting Authority backs English-language programming

The Broadcasting Authority has defended the screening of English-language programmes and questioned a survey commissioned by ATV and TVB that suggested viewers want less English-language television.

The authority said the broadcasters' poll was at odds with a territory-wide study it commissioned this year that found 77 per cent of people wanted English-language programming maintained. More than 3,000 people were interviewed for the authority-commissioned survey, which was conducted by ACNielsen in February and March, an authority spokesman said.

Under the Broadcasting Ordinance, all peak-hour shows on the two English channels must be in English. Outside this period, 20 per cent of programmes may be in other languages.

By contrast, the broadcasters' joint poll, by Asia Market Intelligence in July and August, found 61 per cent of 1,057 viewers wanted more non-English programmes to be aired on English channels.

Seventy-two per cent said it should be unnecessary for the broadcasters to seek government approval to air non-English programmes during peak hours.

The authority spokesman said: 'It is a licence condition that ATV and TVB have to ensure that . . . programming is balanced in content and responsive to the diverse needs and aspirations of the community. For example . . . the authority is considering the relaxation of advertising restrictions in consultation with the licensees.'