Broadcasting giant TVB loses bid for part of troubled ATV's spectrum

Hong Kong's biggest television station TVB has lost its bid for part of the broadcasting spectrum soon to be vacated by its long-time competitor ATV.

The Communications Authority yesterday announced its rejection of TVB's request for more spectrum on top of its existing assignment of 1.5 digital multiplexes to enhance its licensed free-TV services.

"Existing and prospective free-TV licensees which do not have any spectrum assignment for the provision of their ... services should have priority for being assigned broadcasting spectrum," the regulator said.

Following the government's decision not to renew troubled ATV's free-to-air licence, its spectrum will be withdrawn and reassigned from April 2 next year.

TVB had earlier written to the authority to ask for additional spectrum to enhance its high-definition digital terrestrial television service. But the move raised concerns that it would give the giant an unfair advantage over its smaller competitors.

TVB declined to comment on the unsuccessful bid yesterday, but it welcomed the authority's approval of its other requests, including an extension of a temporary spectrum assignment.