Prime Minister offers support for Krem TV license

While the opposition may have been a no show this morning, it did not mean that the Prime Minister got a free pass. Speaking to journalists after his speech, Musa was asked the inevitable question: “Should radio Krem be given a TV license?”

Prime Minister Said Musa

“I don’t see why not.”

Journalist

“In the United States for example, it is illegal for one company to own three media outlets because the influence then is said to be overweening. Do you think that’s a concern in Belize.”

Prime Minister Said Musa

“No, I think this whole concept of the anti-trust thinking doesn’t apply to a small country like Belize. That would not be my concern. My concern would be to ensure that they meet the standards that are required for a good television station in our country. Once they can satisfy the authorities that they have those standards, once the authority can fit the Krem application into its policy about the future of TV on the radio, I don’t see why we shouldn’t move ahead.”

Journalist

“So, will they be granted a license?”

Prime Minister Said Musa

“That’s for the authority to recommend.”

Journalist

“We understand that the Authority has recommended against it?”

Prime Minister Said Musa

“That’s not my understanding. My understanding is that the authority has said that the matter must be seen in the context of a policy that is being developed for the future of TV and radio and I gather that policy will shortly be finalized.”

While Musa’s support for Krem’s application will no doubt carry significant weight with the members of the Broadcasting Authority, the license is by no means a done deal. It is believed that the Broadcasting Authority will consider the matter over the next several months.