To ask Her Majesty's Government what plans they have to increase awareness of the benefits of audio description for television services. [HL1072]

The Communications Act 2003 sets minimum targets for audio description of programmes by broadcasters. However, it is the responsibility of Ofcom to ensure that these requirements are met and to ensure broadcasters are taking effective steps to publicise awareness of their audio description services.

In 2008, Ofcom facilitated an audio description awareness campaign, launched by broadcasters and the Royal National Institute of the Blind. During this six-week campaign, more than 70 television channels broadcast promotions explaining how to find out more about this valuable service. Ofcom's research findings following this campaign showed that the campaign had a positive impact in raising awareness of the service.