Use of standards for the transmission of television signals (repeal. Directive 92/38/EEC)

Mr CAUDRON pointed out that following the first reading the Council had adopted a number of the EP’s amendments. However, the text of the common position had quickly shown itself to be inadequate, particularly with regard to the conclusions concerning DVB (Digital Video Broadcasting). Thus, the holders of conditional access services could offer closed services subject to authorisation of other operators to use their systems. However, DVB sought to use a unique decoder that would be used with different access cards. Faced with two irreconcilable positions - pay channels and channels with a common interface - the rapporteur’s amendments represent a compromise for conditional access. In other words, they guarantee operators a return on their investment and they allow equal access for all broadcasters. The rapporteur was also in favour of efficient anti-piracy legislation. Commissioner Bangemann noted that consideration should also be given to the protection of intellectual rights and that a proposal on data protection was being discussed. He could take over Amendments Nos 1, 2 and 6 as well as Amendments Nos 3 and 4 provided that Amendment No 3 was seen as encouraging the Member States rather than obligating them and Amendment No 4 was correctly interpreted. Amendment No 5, which was the most important amendment as it established the principle of conditional access for all broadcasters, was also taken over by the Commissioner.