Trust seeks more Canvas detail

The BBC Trust is to ask the BBC Executive to give more details on Project Canvas, the protocol the broadcaster is seeking to establish for the delivery of IPTV content.

This follows the completion of a seven-week consultation on the BBC’s proposals. As part of the consultation, the Trust received over 800 submissions from individuals and stakeholders, as well as meeting with over 60 stakeholders.

Having considered all the information, the consultation found widespread support for the delivery of IPTV into the home via broadband.

However, the BBC proposals have been criticised from all quarters for their lack of clarity, amid calls for them to receive the same scrutiny as the now defunct Project Kangaroo.

The Trust is now requesting from the Executive information on areas including, but not limited to:

* The choice of technical standards for canvas
* The way in which the BBC will work with industry bodies
* Control of the electronic programme guide
* Governance arrangements for the joint venture
* The use of editorial controls

It will delay its second consultation until after the Executive has returned with new information and this information has been shared with stakeholders. The Trust will publish its revised timetable as soon as possible.