Brussels, 11/09/2003 (Agence Europe) - Discussions over whether or not to totally review the Television Without Frontiers Directive have hit centre stage. A few days ago, the European Parliament said it should be fully revised to take account of changes in technology and structural changes to broadcasting (see Europe of 9 September, p.16). With this in mind, the Italian Presidency convened an informal meeting of ministers from the EU and the ten acceding states, to be held in Syracuse on 12/14 September. Maurizo Gasparri, the Italian communications minister, will chair the Council, with Viviane Reding representing the European Commission.
The Television Without Frontiers Directive will top the agenda with ministers exchanging view on 1) technological developments in broadcasting and how they impact on whether to revise the Directive; 2) TV advertising; and 3) protecting minors from violent TV images. The Presidency hopes the exchange of views will be used to compile a report during the Italian Presidency looking at the protection of minors and human dignity.