GMG 'can't swap FM jazz for DAB station'

chris

Guardian Media Group cannot directly drop its requirement to play jazz on Smooth Radio in return for opening a dedicated jazz DAB station, Ofcom has said.

The regulator today opened its consultation on GMG's request, which came after GCap decided to close its DAB service theJazz, and has not yet ruled against it.

However, it said removing the 45-hours-per-week condition on Smooth's London and North West stations must be considered independently of the DAB offer.

"It is important to note that the legislation requires Ofcom to consider the proposed changes... on a stand-alone basis and so this consultation relates solely to those two stations," Ofcom said.

"Consideration of these changes cannot be linked to any possible future request from GMG to launch a jazz station on DAB."

In addition, one of the considerations for the licence change is whether it would "narrow the range of programmes available in the area by way of relevant independent radio services". Ofcom said the prospective DAB station would not "count" in this context.

The regulator, in its consultation statement, said it was clear the change would "substantially alter the character" of the stations. The condition was introduced when the Smooth stations succeeded Jazz FM.

The other factors in allowing the change are whether it will aid competition and whether there is evidence it is supported by people in the broadcast areas.

GMG has made no official request to start a DAB jazz station but Ofcom said it "would welcome the provision... either by GMG Radio or any other operator, as this is a clear gap in the market".

GCap plans to play jazz on Classic FM between midnight and 2am when it closes theJazz but as it stands, if Smooth dropped its programming in the genre, there would be none on other analogue radio stations at all.

The regulator asked stakeholders to submit their views before April 11.

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