| Abstract: | Cable television seems set for rapid expansion in the UK, with profound consequences on the pattern of broadcasting. Taking as a starting point the Government's White Paper on cable TV, the author examines the potential and implications of cable for educational and social action broadcasting. Clearly, the number of available channels could increase, with the possibility of two‐way (interactive) communication and a greater localisation of programme origination and distribution, but the likelihood of these and other consequent innovations happening depends on the legislative restriction or freedom permitted to cable operators, and on the modes of financing allowed. Pessimism over the outcome for educational and social action broadcasting is unavoidable, but practical steps are proposed for a concerted strategy to protect the interests of education and social action, and to ensure that a proper balance is struck between interests and benefits. The decisions of the next few months will determine whether the dramatic opportunities offered by cable will become realities. |
