Italy suspends DTT frequency auction after Malta protest

Malta and Croatia have submitted formal protests to Italy's Communications Authority (AgCom) regarding the framework of the ongoing public consultation on the regulations for the planned DTT frequency auction.

According to reports emerging tonight, Rome's minister for economic development tweeted that he was ordering the suspension of the so called 'beauty contest' in which broadcasters Rai, Mediaset and Telecom were bidding to increase their transmission and channels on the Digital Terrerstrial Television platform.

The auction was considered as an opportunity for Italy's government to cash-in large sums of money from broadcasters through the granting of frequencies.

The auction however has led to protests from Malta and Croatia, who expressed concerned about possible interference from Italy with TV reception in their markets.