The Association of Commercial Television in Europe (ACT) has called on the European Commission to further strengthen its Conditional Access Directive (98/84/EC).
In a statement to accompany its response to the Commission’s consultation on electronic pay services, the ACT says it does not see any legal obstacles in the purchase of rights for broadcasting on a transfrontier basis, arguing that cross-border services are being provided where a reasonable return on investment is thought possible.
“Protecting broadcasting services against piracy is at the heart of our concerns. Piracy remains a major problem in countries bordering the EU. Commercial broadcasters therefore look forward to seeing the Conditional Access Directive adopted by countries aspiring to join the EU,” said Ross Biggam, Director General ACT.
The association asks the Commission to make clear that the Directive covers IPTV and mobile TV services as well as encrypted services that do not involve payment.