News
Project Canvas submits merger analysis to OFT, as Arqiva join as partner
The companies involved in Project Canvas have submitted analysis to the Office of Fair Trading setting out why the proposed Canvas joint venture does not constitute a qualifying merger under the Enterprise Act 2002. Project Canvas is the proposal to develop and promote subscription free, internet connected television based on common technical standards. The Project Canvas partners now expect the OFT to initiate a consultation process.
Today, the partners also announced that the communications infrastructure and media services company Arqiva has committed to join the proposed venture. Alongside the existing six partners of the BBC, BT, Channel 4, Five, ITV and Talk Talk Group, Arqiva will take an equal stake, and provide equal funding, to a new venture. The BBC’s involvement remains subject to BBC Trust approval.
Project Director, Richard Halton, said:
“The Canvas partners are clear that the joint venture does not qualify as a merger, and we welcome the opportunity to clarify this position formally.
“We are delighted that Arqiva have committed themselves to the project. They have a history of positive and progressive support for Freeview, and Project Canvas will benefit hugely from both their experience and engineering expertise.”
Rob Hamlin, Strategic Development Director for Arqiva Terrestrial Broadcast, said:
“We are delighted to become a partner in Project Canvas. Arqiva has a long history in supporting free-to-air broadcasting as a shareholder in Freeview and provider of digital terrestrial television networks, so it is a natural step for us to take a partner role in Canvas.
“The approach of Canvas as an open platform based on common technical standards is one we fully support and are looking to encourage through standards bodies, particularly via the UK’s Digital Television Group (‘DTG’)."
