Pitch for a niche: as the battle for ratings and advertising revenue intensifies in cable and satellite television, Europe looks set to repeat the US experience of news services closely targeted at ever more specialised niche markets

Article Abstract:

Broadcasters are targeting news services at ever more specialised niche markets and news has become the latest weapon in the battle for ratings and advertising revenue, particularly in the UK's cable and satellite sector. Mentorn Films of the UK is exploiting the entertainment niche and is establishing an international entertainment news feed with Worldwide Television News. The TF1-backed La Chaine Info is already running in France and BBT TV is planning to launch a 24-hour news service in the UK.

Services, Broadcast journalism

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V for Victory?

Article Abstract:

The European Parliament has endorsed V-chip technology, which is designed to allow parents to censor progammes for their children. The chip was developed by Tim Collings, a Canadian engineer, and MEPs have voted to make installation of the V-chip mandatory in all new TV sets. The Television Without Frontiers directive has yet to be discussed by the Council of Ministers, but it is suggested that it could be enforced by 1998. The benefits and criticisms of the new technology are discussed.

Analysis, V-chip, V-chips

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Wild States

Article Abstract:

Television audiences in the US are showing growing interest in natural history programmes. This is probably a reflection of the rise in public concern about nature conservation and environmental protection. Many US networks are giving increased airtime to natural history, leading to rising demand for output from suppliers such as National Geographic Television.

Portrayals, Natural history

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