Scottish digital network could be 'game-changer'

A NEW digital TV network for Scotland could be a "game-changer" for the country's creative economy, according to a former Scottish Broadcasting Commission chairman.

Blair Jenkins told MSPs yesterday the channel was a "once-in-a-lifetime" chance to make an impact in Scotland's media landscape.

Mr Jenkins, a former head of BBC Scotland news and current affairs, chaired the Scottish Digital Network Panel, which last month published a report looking at how a Scottish digital network - including a TV channel for public service broadcasting - could be set up and funded.

The study comes after the Scottish Broadcasting Commission called in 2008 for the establishment of such a network, which would cost 75 million a year. It concluded the licence fee would be the "most appropriate" source of funding.

Mr Jenkins appeared yesterday before Holyrood's education and culture committee to give evidence as part of MSPs' ongoing consideration of broadcasting issues in Scotland.

He said the network, set up as outlined in the panel's report, would provide opportunities to work with other organisations.

He said: "I would see the digital network as working in partnership with the likes of Channel 4, with BBC Alba as well, with broadcasters such as RTE, and other European broadcasters."