Venezuela’s cable television chamber says government plans to impose new regulations

Venezuela cable TV says gov’t plans new regulation

CARACAS, Venezuela — The government of President Hugo Chavez is preparing to impose new regulations on cable TV, the head of Venezuela’s cable television chamber said Wednesday.

Chamber president Mario Seijas told The Associated Press the government outlined the new rules to the cable companies this week and said they will be published in the Official Gazette in about 15 days.

Seijas said the rules will require that at least 70 percent of the content of cable channels be produced in Venezuela.

He said cable operations also will have to carry Chavez’s frequent speeches whenever he deems appropriate. Over-the-air TV broadcasters already are required to carry his speeches.

There was no immediate comment from the telecommunications commission.

Chavez has increasingly clashed with the country’s private media. His government recently revoked the concessions of 32 radio stations and two small television stations, while opening investigations into more than 200 others.