To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what assessment he has made of the cost of replacing all programme making and special events equipment that will be rendered redundant as a result of the clearance and sale of the digital dividend spectrum; and if he will make a statement. (308340)

Ofcom have estimated the costs for the residual value of programme making and special events (PMSE) equipment that will be affected by the changes in channel 69, taking into account the relevant life of the equipment and has made these available to the Department. Figures have also been provided by representatives of PMSE users, based on a new for old approach and the costs of clearing all the channels affected. The Government are currently reflecting on proposals by PMSE users for full “new for old” compensation, in the light of the notice, in some cases extensive, provided by Ofcom of these changes.