Digital Broadcasting: Government Assistance

Mr. Don Foster
To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what percentage of UK households eligible for assistance in switching over to digital television will be required to pay to access assistance; what type of assistance will be available to each group; and what charges will be made to those eligible.

Mr. Woodward
[holding answer 14 June 2007]: Of the UK households eligible for assistance from the Digital Switchover Help scheme, we estimate that 55 per cent. will be required to pay for it. This help will comprise the provision of the appropriate equipment to convert one TV set and, where necessary, the relevant help to install and use such equipment and an aerial installation. The level of charge will be £40.