BSKYB SAGA MUST NOT BE CLOUDED BY THE POLITICS OF PERSONALITY, BUT SHOULD FOCUS ON THE REALITY OF BUSINESS.

LONDON -- The following information was released by the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA):

Mark Littlewood comments on the NewsCorp's bid for BSkyB

Responding to the publication of Ofcom's report on NewsCorp's bid for BSkyB, Mark Littlewood, Director-General of the IEA, said that it fails to take account of the reality of today's media market.

He said:

"In considering plurality and competition in broadcasting we need to be conscious of the great leaps in technology that we have seen in recent times. These have brought a surge in competition in media and hugely enhanced choice for viewers. Today's average household has potential access to hundreds of different channels - plus a vast range of content on the internet - rather than being limited to the two- or three-channel offering of years gone by.

"It is vital that the debate is not clouded by politics and discussions of personality but instead focuses on the reality of today's multi-outlet and multi-platform media market."

To arrange an interview with Mark Littlewood, Director-General of the IEA, please contact Ruth Porter, Communications Manager, 077 5171 7781, 020 7799 8900, rporter@iea.org.uk.