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News about SIBC
Since 1996 SIBC has been virtually alone in
arguing that the European Eureka 147 Band III DAB standard is not
suitable for geographical areas like Shetland. DAB on Band III is a
cellular system which, in difficult geography, results in large gaps in
coverage.
In recent months SIBC has been joined by other smaller radio stations
and medium sized groups such as UKRD, UTV Media and the Local Radio
Company in making similar points. All have now grouped together to
instigate debates in the House of Commons and the House of Lords, during
the passage of the Digital Economy Bill. |
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Shetland's Location |
Alistair Carmichael MP has already held a
debate in Westminster Hall on the future of local radio in which
promises for small stations were obtained from the minister, and this
was followed by a two hour House of Lords debate on radio in which the
concession was given that FM would remain for the foreseeable future,
instead of being switched off soon, as demanded by the large radio
groups.
SIBC has also been told that the door is now open for the consideration
of a more suitable digital alternative to DAB, but compatible with it,
for geographical areas like Shetland. This is likely to be DRM+ on Band
I or Band II or a similar system not yet developed. |
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