To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport if he will ensure that the experience of people with a visual impairment is taken fully into account in the preparations for digital switchover and that (a) access to the necessary support and equipment and (b) accessible information on services is provided and broadcasters are informed of steps they can take to improve programme accessibility. (183331)

[holding answer 31 January 2008]: The Government and Digital UK have consulted the RNIB to understand any issues of concern to people with visual impairments and how best to communicate with them and help them through the switchover process. We will continue to do so as the switchover programme is rolled out.

Blind or partially sighted people are one of the groups eligible for the Digital Switchover Help Scheme which provides help with equipment, installation and aftercare support. Audio Description (AD), an additional narration on TV programmes that describes on-screen action, is accessible through the equipment provided by the scheme. Help is free of charge to those on income support/pension credit. Others will pay a £40 charge.

Guidance and best practice on how broadcasters can improve programme accessibility is given in Ofcom’s Code on Television Access Services, which includes information on audio description.