I am writing to voice my anger at the discrimination faced by blind and partially sighted televi-sion viewers which is causing frustration across the country. I have a sight problem but enjoy watching television as much as anyone. It is my main source of news and entertainment but I am being treated like a second class viewer and shut out from the digital broadcasting revolu-tion.

There are nearly two million people who have sight problems in the UK and like me they are being denied the same choices and opportunities as sighted people.

This is because it is impossible to get hold of the equipment needed to access audio description - an additional commentary to programmes which allows people with sight problems to follow the action. This vital equipment is not being produced or distributed because no one is prepared to fund it even though broadcasters are now transmitting some audio described programmes on digital terrestrial channels.

I have written to my MP about this because I think it is urgent that the Government steps in to solve this problem. The Royal National Institute for the blind (RNIB) is co-ordinating a national campaign called 'Get the Picture?' I hope others will join in and get involved. Information on how to help is available from RNIB's Campaigns Team on 020 7391 2184 or email cam-paign@rnib.org.uk

MR W BAKER

ADDRESS SUPPLIED

December 5, 2001 13:33