The French media regulator CSA has given its approval to the purchase by Canal+ Group of the Direct 8 and Direct Star channels.
The Bolloré Group previously owned the channels, which hold valuable terrestrial spectrum.
In a series of commitments Canal has agreed to maintain the existing format of the two channels and increase original production.
Under the new brand of D8, the channel will be restricted as to the amount of US content that can be broadcast. A minimum of 730 hours of programmes new to the French TV market must be carried by D8; there must also be a gap of 18 months before a series transmitted on Canal+ can be seen on D8 [It is questionable as to whether this is actually a restriction].
Investment must be made by both D8 and D17 (the former Direct Star) in European films. D17 has also committed to run more cultural programmes and introduce further child protection.
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