It's far too early to second guess BT's plans as a broadcaster but it is clear that they have the capacity to compete in a market that already sees companies offering phone services with the latest TV packages. This obviously omits the crucial fact that BT would have to upgrade their network to ADSL.

BT were as vague as their call charges on the matter when questioned, "We want to apply so that we can see what kind of services we might be able to offer."

Meaningful as that sounds, the spokesman did acknowledge that the investment in their network would have to be "substantial" and that it was indeed too early to start talking about content. It is known though, that the scourge of millions of the country's letterboxes has been in talks with Granada and Carlton about a possible content sharing deal were they to actuate their broadcasting wishes.