A Coherent Media Policy
In its report A Coherent Media Policy (Report no. 24, 1982), the WRR calls for the formulation of a coherent policy with respect to the mass media, in part because technological developments will blur the current distinction between different media, for example broadcast and print media.
Media supply is set to expand
Information technologies are changing rapidly. In particular, the WRR expects the application of broadband transmission via the cable and the development of satellite communication to have a major impact. For example, various services will be delivered on the same network, such as telephony and television. Possibilities for new media services will also emerge and there will be far more competition, both national and international, in the broadcasting system in the Netherlands.
Consequences for government policy
The government’s policy towards the national terrestrial broadcasting system should focus on preserving a public system that reflects the country’s social, cultural, religious and spiritual diversity. Greater attention should be devoted to the programming for the informational and expressive functions of the broadcasting system; entertainment should not dominate. The government should pursue a primarily liberalising policy.
This report was written at the request of the government. The report was accompanied by a minority opinion written by WRR member H.A. van Stiphout.