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S.C. 128\02
regulatory powers of the Ministry are heavily circumscribed by the King who enjoys
sweeping powers under the Act. The relevant section reads:-
“The Ministry issues licences for broadcasting and local broadcasting.
Conditions may be attached to such licences. The King may issue regulations
concerning the allocation of licences and the terms and conditions of licences,
inter alia, on the operation and revocation etc., of licences, on licensing areas
and ownership restrictions.
The King may issue regulations concerning
circumstances in which a broadcaster is required to comply with Norwegian
broadcasting rules. The King may also issue regulations to fulfil Norway’s
administrative authority for broadcasting and local broadcasting, etc. The
ministry may lay down further rules concerning the tasks of the Mass Media
Authority.”
The King also has powers to order broadcasters to carry
announcements from government authorities “where such announcements are of
major importance” (section 2:4). He also has the power to determine content both by
way of disallowing it or ordering it.
He determines the commercial fortunes of
broadcasters by his sweeping powers to regulate advertising and sponsorship (Chapter
3:1-4).
The only time the Mass Media Authority has licensing powers is when
it comes to local/community broadcasting. In terms of Chapter 7:1, the Mass Media
Authority:-
“shall grant licences for the operation of local broadcasting services. The
Ministry shall appoint a Licensing Council which gives the Mass Media
Authority advice and recommendations in connection with the allocation of
licences for local broadcasting services. The Ministry shall determine the
mandate and composition of the Licensing Council.”
Select target paragraph3
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