ISBA still hostile to a single ITV

In the news article “ISBA launches bid to overhaul financial ads” (MW August 23), it was suggested that ISBA’s stance towards ITV’s consolidation into a single entity was softening.

We issued an immediate and clear response stating that, while every major strand of our policy was kept under continuous review, no such change of our well-considered stance had been agreed. However, last week’s edition of MW (September 6) carried a leader entitled “ISBA faces up to ITV dilemma” which perpetuates the notion that our position has changed.

I want you to be absolutely clear that this is not the case. ISBA and its members seek a strong ITV and hope that its market share does not continue to erode to a point where consolidation into a single entity will be possible simply because its market share has reduced to such a level as permits it.

ISBA has always recognised that ITV will be able to consolidate into a single entity at such time as its market share reduces to a point which is acceptable to the relevant competition authorities. However, ISBA opposes any consolidation prior to those tests and criteria being met.

ISBA’s policies on TV broadcasting matters are developed by the ISBA TV Action Group. On such major issues as this, its recommendations are then put before both to the ISBA Executive Committee and ultimately the ISBA Council for their agreement before adoption.

Malcolm Earnshaw

Director-general

ISBA

London W1J