Expatica news

Digital television to become a reality in Spain

2 June 2005

MADRID — The Spanish parliament approved a controversial law which opens the way for more digital television channels in a country famous for its so-called telebasura or trash television.

The law has sparked fierce political debate because ALthough it is supposed to allow companies to start more cable television channels, critics claim it will actually make it easier for more conventional channels.

Many countries, such as Britain, have introduced digital television, which is replacing old-style analogue television.  Digital technology is said by many to be superior.

At present there are only three national channels. These are state-run TVE, Atena 3, and Telecinco.

The oppostion Popular Party (PP) has accused the government of introducing the law to favour its “friends and the powerful”.

Macarena Montesinos, PP spokeswoman, said only one expert had supported the idea, and they were invited to give their opinion by the Socialist government.
 
The new law Terrestrial Digital Television law has been blocked before and may be blocked again by the PP when it reaches the upper house of the panish parliament.

[Copyright EFE with Expatica]

Subject: Spanish news