The BBC has applied for Ofcom consent to broadcast exclusive live coverageof the Derby on BBC1 in June 2004.
This is a Group A Listed Event which means that the rights to broadcast livecoverage must have been offered to the two categories of broadcasters specifiedin the Broadcasting Act 1996: those providing a service which is free to airand has national coverage (BBC1, BBC2, ITV1 and Channel 4) and those providingother services. The rules which apply are set out in the Code on Sports andOther Listed and Designated Events (revised January 2002).
In the case of the Derby Ofcom understands that the rights have been offeredto broadcasters in the other category from BBC1 and which are likely to be interested,and that they have declined to take up the opportunity.
Ofcom is now inviting such broadcasters, and any other interested parties,to comment on the BBC's request.