Posted: Mon., Mar. 12, 2007, 10:12am PT

ITV reinstates quiz channel

Investigation clears ITV Play of misconduct

LONDON -- ITV, Blighty's biggest commercial broadcaster, is to reinstate quiz channel ITV Play after an investigation cleared it of any malpractice in relation to its use of premium rate phone lines.

The broadcaster's stock price immediately rose as an enquiry by Deloitte cleared ITV Play and an interactive quiz on ITV1's daytime flagship program, "This Morning," of any violation of regulators' codes.

In a statement ITV said: "Following the return of the interactive services in 'Dancing on Ice' last Saturday, ITV can confirm that Deloitte has performed the first stage of its review of the interactive processes and procedures contained within 'This Morning' and 'ITV Play' programming on ITV1.

"On the basis of the information available, including Deloitte's findings, ITV is satisfied that both are being operated in accordance with the Icstis and Ofcom codes. As part of our complete commitment to ongoing compliance, ITV will continue to observe the operation of interactive services with Deloitte's assistance."

ITV Play controller William Van Rest said: "ITV Play has always put a huge premium on responsibility and ensuring our systems are as transparent and accountable as possible.

"I'm delighted that we are able to return these services and viewers can continue to enjoy these shows and interactive quizzes."

Last week ITV executive chairman Michael Grade pulled all the broadcaster's premium line quizzes following allegations that viewers were being ripped off.

Channel 4, Five and the BBC have also been involved in the row over interactive premium phone line services allegedly misleading and cheating audiences.


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