The possibilities for implementing digital connectors should be further explored as an incentive to consumer equipment switchover, in line with recital 33 of the new 'Universal Service' Directive stating that "it is desirable to enable consumers to achieve the fullest connectivity possible to digital television sets".

Terrestrial broadcasters argue that the service obligations (universal coverage, service plurality, restrictions on harmful content, etc) limit their control over the spectrum they consume; [47] and that switchover already introduces in the short term additional expense associated with the need to change consumer receivers and simulcast analogue and digital offers during a period of uncertain duration.

Must access" rules will be needed to ensure universal availability to public service content on other major distribution systems, and to memory in receivers where that forms a significant gateway".

9. Accepts that "must-carry" rules remain justified in the digital broadcasting environment and that the regulatory framework must take full account of the need to ensure universal access to public service content; believes that this can be achieved through the use of "must-carry" rules on key networks and guarantees of access for public service content through other key distribution networks and facilities such as set-top boxes and receivers; believes that such content should be easily accessible and prominently displayed on navigators or guides, provided that such rules are proportionate and limited to those channels that that are co ...[+++]vered by a public service broadcast remit such as that defined in the Protocol annexed to the EC Treaty on the system of public service broadcasting in the Member States and that operators subject to such rules, where deemed appropriate by Member States, receive reasonable remuneration, taking into account the non-profit nature of public service broadcasting and the value of these broadcast channels to operators; takes the view that, in the case of possible commercial activities of public broadcasters, general competition law must be applied and no cross-subsidies allowed, in order to ensure interoperability in the digital television market and in broadcasting content and services;